During a recent government meeting, a resident proposed a tax adjustment aimed at alleviating the financial burden on homeowners in St. Augustine. The individual suggested implementing a $3 annual tax increase for all county residents, which would facilitate a significant reduction in property taxes for St. Augustine homeowners. Specifically, the proposal would lower their taxes from approximately $2,200 to $1,500 over the next five years.

The resident emphasized the growing population in the county, noting an increase of 6,000 people in just the first eight months of the year, and argued that the current tax structure disproportionately affects St. Augustine residents compared to wealthier areas like Ponte Vedra. They expressed concerns about fairness in taxation, particularly for retirees who are struggling with high monthly tax bills.

The proposal was framed as a means to create a more equitable tax system, suggesting that a small increase for the broader county population could lead to substantial savings for those in St. Augustine. The public hearing concluded without further comments from attendees, indicating a lack of immediate opposition to the proposal.