The Town Council of Loxahatchee Groves held a regular meeting on September 17, 2025, focusing on the implications of recent legislative changes and upcoming proposals regarding property taxes and local government funding. A significant topic of discussion was the anticipated impact of a proposed constitutional amendment aimed at increasing the homestead exemption for property owners.

Council members expressed concerns that the state legislature's recent repeal of the commercial rental tax would not provide relief for non-homesteaded properties, particularly affecting commercial and retail entities. This repeal has resulted in substantial revenue losses for local governments, with estimates suggesting hundreds of millions of dollars in recurring revenue lost statewide.

The council anticipates a robust debate on the proposed homestead exemption, which may include specific eligibility criteria, such as age or property value thresholds. These discussions are expected to take place in upcoming committee meetings, where representatives will be present to provide insights and updates.

Additionally, the council highlighted the need for a better understanding of local government funding, particularly regarding the financial demands placed on budgets by first responders. There was a consensus that misconceptions about waste and abuse in local budgets need to be addressed to foster a more informed dialogue about funding and resource allocation.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to stay informed on legislative developments and to advocate for the town's interests as new proposals emerge. The council remains focused on ensuring that any changes to property tax laws consider the financial health of local governments and the services they provide to residents.