Seminole County officials warn Amendment 3 could bring major public safety cuts

Seminole County officials are warning residents about possible cuts to public safety if Amendment 3 passes in November.The proposed constitutional amendment would increase the homestead exemption for a primary residence from about $50,000 to $150,000 in 2027, and $250,000 in 2028. It will need 60% approval from voters in November to pass.During a Tuesday update before the Seminole County Board of Commissioners, county leaders said property taxes currently generate about $562 million. Public safety accounts for approximately 72% of that funding.“And I always like to quote you, Chairman, when you say the math just doesn’t work,” the county manager said.The county estimates Amendment 3 could result in a $119 million loss in revenue.Seminole County Sheriff Dennis Lemma said his department could face a 20% reduction in funding, or about $41 million.The sheriff warned that the cuts could lead to a hiring freeze, the loss of up to 300 patrol positions, delays in police equipment repairs and f