Hollywood officials held a public meeting to explain Amendment 3, a statewide ballot proposal that would sharply cut property taxes, and to answer residents’ questions about how it could affect city services.
Under the measure, the taxable value of a primary homestead property would drop by $150,000 in 2027 and by another $250,000 in 2028. After those reductions, the Florida Legislature would decide whether to eliminate property taxes on primary residences entirely.
City officials said the initial cut alone would cost Hollywood $34 million in revenue. Tax revenue makes up 46% of the city’s general fund, and property owners without a homestead exemption could face higher taxes to make up the difference.
Deputy City Manager Adam Reichbach said no part of the budget would be off limits. Cities would have to choose between cutting services or programs, raising taxes and fees, or some mix of those options, he said.
Reichbach also pointed to rising operating costs. He said landscaping contracts are up more than 25%, police vehicles are up 25% and medical supplies are up 160%. Fuel prices matter too, he added, since police and fire units depend on gasoline.
