Orlando leaders say a proposed Florida property tax overhaul could create major budget shortfalls, leading to hiring freezes, service cuts and delayed projects.

Sanford has been down this road before — twice, in fact. Now, with a sweeping Florida property tax reform measure headed to voters this November, city leaders are once again weighing whether a fire assessment fee is the answer to a looming budget crisis.

Seminole County plans for 2027 budget, while also bracing for a statewide property tax ballot measure that could dramatically reshape county finances starting in 2028.

Sanford Mayor Art Woodruff warns that a proposed constitutional amendment to expand Florida's homestead exemption could cost his city more than $15 million in property tax revenue over two years — threatening cuts to parks, public safety staffing, and other essential services residents depend on daily.

Seminole County’s Commission approved the budget for the upcoming year on Tuesday. It includes a property tax hike for the first time in nearly two decades.

Seminole County’s proposed $1.2 billion budget comes with possible tax hikes as it finds ways to maintain services, keep up with capital projects, and prepare the county for future financial needs.

Removing property taxes would require an amendment to the state constitution, which could be on the ballot in 2026.