Voter support eroding for Florida property tax amendment

Source: Sun-Sentinel

Champions of the property tax relief proposal on the Jan. 29 presidential primary ballot face an uphill battle over the next week to win over a large number of undecided residents, a statewide poll of likely voters showed.

The poll of 500 likely voters conducted by the South Florida Sun-Sentinel and the Florida Times-Union found 45 percent in favor of the plan, which is heavily touted by Gov. Charlie Crist. Because it would amend the state constitution, 60 percent approval is required.

The amendment would allow homeowners to keep their tax breaks when they move and would double the homestead exemption on all but school taxes. The average homeowner in Florida would save $240.

Local government officials have united with police officers, firefighters and teachers against the initiative. The opponents charge that the tax changes would result in severe cuts in local services, including police and fire protection.