Columbia County commissioners discuss proposed property tax changes

LAKE CITY, Fla. — Columbia County commissioners discussed a proposed statewide property tax exemption and local funding transparency measures during their board meeting Thursday.

County officials reviewed a proposed constitutional amendment that would create a $150,000 homestead exemption in the 2027-2028 tax year and increase that exemption to $250,000 the following year.

Officials learned that a provision included in an earlier proposal from the governor to replace lost local revenue was removed by state lawmakers. County commissioners questioned how local governments would make up the difference if the amendment passes.

“I think it’s gonna come with the budget somewhere and it’s probably going to be some services that they get cut. I mean, it might be less than one or less gets paved,” said Rocky Ford, a board member.

Several board members said they believe the county should begin preparing now for the possibility that the amendment receives voter approval.

The proposed amendment would still allow property tax revenue to be used for public safety, infrastructure projects, debt obligations and other local government operations.

Commissioners also discussed a proposed law enforcement MSTU, or municipal service taxing unit.

“The commission wanted to know to be more transparent of the property taxes you pay the majority it goes to enforcement and public safety,” said David Kraus, Columbia County manager.

County officials said the proposal is designed to give residents a clearer look at how their property tax dollars support law enforcement services by listing those costs separately on tax documents.

Kraus said the MSTU would break down the different agencies in Columbia County, including county tax, city tax, school tax, water management district tax and Lakeshore Hospital Authority tax, with law enforcement listed as a separate line item.

Officials also discussed a separate EMS MSTU that could help fund additional emergency response units and reduce response times across the county.

County leaders said a public hearing will give residents the opportunity to share their thoughts before any final decisions are made.

The state property tax proposal would still need voter approval. Public hearings on the law enforcement and EMS MSTU proposals are scheduled for June 18.

Click here to subscribe to our newsletter.