Matlow Says Amendment 3 Won't Require Drastic Cuts to City Services

Tallahassee faces an estimated $29 million revenue loss over two years, and Mayor-elect Jeremy Matlow says the city can absorb it without significantly affecting services. He made the case in comments to WFSU, as reported November 11 by Steve Stewart of Tallahassee Reports. CCN did not interview Matlow. This account relies on that reporting.

Florida voters approved Amendment 3 on November 3. It increases homestead exemptions and reduces property tax revenue for local governments. Tallahassee Reports puts the city's estimated reduction at $29 million over two years, including about $10 million in the first year.

A different tone than the pre-election coverage

Before the election, coverage emphasized potentially severe reductions in local government services, including public safety, parks, transportation and other programs, according to Tallahassee Reports. The outlet calls Matlow's assessment markedly different. He says the amendment will require spending reductions, but that they should not significantly affect city services.

Matlow told WFSU the financial consequences are manageable. "It's not a doomsday scenario like some would predict," he said. He pointed to Tallahassee's substantial commercial property tax base and student housing. He also said he believes the city can make the necessary cuts without residents noticing a difference in the delivery of service. That is his own assessment, and the city's coming budget process will test it.

Where he plans to look

Matlow plans to scrutinize administrative salaries, nonessential departments, travel expenses and food budgets. The report does not say which of the four he will take up first.

He intends to conduct departmental budget reviews beginning in January, examining staffing levels and opportunities for reductions. Tallahassee Reports says the coming budget process will show whether he can deliver the spending reductions he anticipates while maintaining existing city services.

What it means for homeowners

For homeowners, Amendment 3 means larger homestead exemptions. For City Hall, it means less money coming in. The report does not say what the larger exemption is worth to a typical Tallahassee homeowner. It also does not list specific cuts or estimate what the salary, department, travel and food reviews could save.