Jacksonville City Council Maintains Property Tax Rate, Cut Vote Expected Sept. 23

Jacksonville City Council is set to revisit a proposed 1.1% property tax rate cut in an upcoming meeting, following a narrow 10-8 vote to maintain the current rate. The revote could shift in favor of the tax cut due to the return of an absent council member and another member planning to switch support, with proponents arguing the cut would return $13 million to taxpayers this year and nearly $70 million over five years. Mayor Donna Deegan and public safety unions oppose the cut, warning it could impair funding for essential services, despite assurances from some council members that public safety will remain fully funded. The debate reflects a broader tension between calls for tax relief from residents and fiscal concerns about sustaining city services amid a significantly increased budget. Business groups and some council members emphasize the need to manage spending rather than increase revenue, while others caution that the modest savings for homeowners may not justify potential long-term budget impacts. The final decision is expected during the council's September 23 meeting, with the outcome likely influenced by shifting council votes and public opinion.