Leaders from Pinellas County’s barrier island municipalities are voicing strong opposition to a state proposal that would eliminate property taxes, warning the measure could severely damage local government services.

At the Dec. 3 Barrier Island Governmental Council meeting, Belleair Bluffs officials urged fellow leaders to educate residents about the plan, which would appear on the 2026 ballot. Mayor Chris Arbutine, Commissioner Suzy Sofer, and City Administrator Debra Sullivan presented their concerns to the council.

Belleair Beach Mayor Dave Gattis characterized the proposal as an unprecedented attempt at government preemption, while Clearwater Mayor Bruce Rector warned it would have a catastrophic impact on community services.

The officials raised concerns with Lt. Gov. Jay Collins after a November meeting, questioning how municipalities would maintain services such as fire protection, public safety, and local amenities without property tax revenue. While the state has indicated it would provide replacement funding, critics argue this would make Florida’s more than 400 cities and towns dependent on state allocations.

Arbutine, in his 25th year as mayor, said there was no clear solution for how the state would support local governments, noting the state faces projected budget deficits in coming years.

Sofer pointed out that Florida is projected to have a surplus in 2026-27 but will face deficits of $1.5 billion and $1.6 billion in subsequent years, raising questions about the sustainability of state funding for local services.

Gattis said residents were unaware of the potential consequences, adding that he would continue informing his community through social media and local press.

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