Dunedin mayor warns proposed property-tax cuts could force deep service reductions

Mayor Moren Mo Freeny opened Dunedin's 2026 State of the City by warning that proposed changes in the Florida Legislature to non-school property taxes could sharply reduce local revenue and force difficult trade-offs.

"Eliminating property taxes does not eliminate the cost of funding the services," the mayor said, explaining that a significant loss of homesteaded property-tax revenue would still leave cities responsible for police, fire and other services. He said some legislative measures could cost the city an estimated $4 million to $9 million and that a complete end to homesteaded property tax would translate to roughly a $9 million cut for Dunedin.

City Manager Jennifer Bramley told the audience the commission adopted a $156 million fiscal 2026 budget in September while maintaining the millage rate flat for the tenth consecutive year. She said roughly 35 percent of the general fund (about $18 million) comes from property taxes and emphasized the role that revenue plays in funding everyday services.

Both officials urged residents to weigh trade-offs and said the city will hold two community forums on April 14 and April 22 to explain potential impacts and answer questions. "We will continue working with our legislative partners, advocating for solutions that protect affordability while preserving the quality of life that makes Dunedin special," Bramley said.

The mayor framed the debate as a choice for voters and officials between reducing services, raising fees, or identifying alternative revenue streams if state action reduces local property-tax authority. He encouraged residents to follow Dunedin News for updates and forum details.

Next steps: the city will host the announced forums and continue outreach with legislative partners and residents.