Northeast Florida sheriffs react after Amendment 3 passes – News4JAX

Northeast Florida sheriffs react after Amendment 3 passes  News4JAX

Northeast Florida sheriffs who raised concerns about Amendment 3 before the election are responding after Florida voters approved the property tax measure Tuesday. JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – Northeast Florida sheriffs who raised concerns about Amendment 3 before the election are responding after Florida voters approved the property tax measure Tuesday. Before the election, Nassau County Sheriff Bill Leeper and Clay County Sheriff Michelle Cook joined other public safety leaders in urging voters to reject the amendment, warning of potential revenue losses and effects on local services. The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office had said it typically does not comment on proposed legislation. Sheriff T.K. Waters also said he usually stays out of legislative proposals.

After the election, Waters said the amendment’s passage means “much-needed relief is on the way for hard-working Floridians.” He said Jacksonville leaders have demonstrated a strong commitment to public safety and he expects that to continue. “The Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office will remain focused on working hard, being responsible stewards of taxpayer dollars, and delivering the level of service our citizens expect and deserve,” Waters said. Chris Hand, a government law attorney, said the amendment could have a significant effect on local governments. Jacksonville’s council auditors estimated the city could need to cut $200 million from its $2 billion general fund operating budget next year, Hand said Wednesday on The