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Longwood talks budget, prepares for property tax cuts

Current reform proposals could reduce revenue by $4.4 million

A fast-moving proposal backed by Gov. Ron DeSantis to eliminate property taxes on owner-occupied homes is drawing mixed reactions from Floridians and fresh warnings from housing experts who say the plan could worsen the state’s affordability crisis. (Copyright 2025 by WJXT News4JAX - All rights reserved.)

LONGWOOD, Fla. – The City of Longwood is developing its next budget while also planning for a potential shortage in funds if voters approve property tax reform in November.

On Wednesday, commissioners are scheduled to meet for a work session to discuss the proposed budget for fiscal year 2026-2027.

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At $79 million, the budget proposal reflects an increase of 6.2% over the prior year.

Part of the funding includes continued construction planning for Fire Station 15, water improvement projects, and a 4% salary increase for non-union employees.

Like many cities in Central Florida, Longwood is also preparing for a potential blow to the budget if a property tax referendum is approved on the November general election ballot.

According to the city manager, current proposals before the Florida Legislature could reduce revenues by $4.4 million annually by Fiscal Year 2028.

No action has been laid out for how Longwood could make adjustments. However, the city manager has said staff will continue to evaluate operational efficiencies, other revenue sources, and periodic fee adjustments.

Commissioners will discuss the potential budget during a meeting on Wednesday at 10 a.m.