Spring 2026 FCIAAO Newsletter

SAGE advice Continued

Model Neutral HJR 203 Q&A for Public ‑ Facing Staff : (cont.)

Communication: Best Practices for Staff Do: Use factual language drawn directly from the amendment. Explain what the amendment does, not whether it should pass. Keep the conversation within our statutory responsibilities. Encourage residents to read the ballot summary themselves. Direct fiscal or policy questions to the appropriate city or county departments. Offering personal opinions or predictions. Speculating about budget impacts or service changes. Using any language that could be interpreted as advocacy. Comparing counties or making assumptions about local budgets . Closing Thought As public servants, we’re often the first people residents reach out to when statewide issues begin to touch their daily lives. Avoid:

When someone walks into our office or calls with a question, they’re not just seeking information—they’re looking for reassurance that someone can help them navigate complicated topics with honesty and clarity. By staying grounded in the facts and committed to neutrality, we give our community exactly what it needs: reliable guidance in a moment of uncertainty. As the conversation around HJR 203 continues to unfold, let’s keep offering steady, consistent, and trustworthy information. It’s what strengthens public confidence in our work, and it’s what keeps our office a dependable resource for everyone we serve. And that’s your Sage Advice for this quarter. Have a tip or a success story? If you’ve used these resources to solve a tough issue, share it! I’d love to feature real world wins in the next Sage Advice. After all, the best way to navigate this maze is together.

4 . “How will cities and counties replace the lost tax revenue” Response: “Our office does not determine or recommend revenue sources. We assess property and apply exemptions according to Florida law. Budget decisions and funding alternatives are handled by each local government, so residents may want to contact their city or county administration for information on fiscal planning.” 5. “Do you think this is a good idea?” Response: “We don’t take positions on constitutional amendments. Our role is to explain how the laws work and to apply them accurately if they are approved.” 6. “Will this change affect property values?” Response: “No. The amendment affects taxation, not valuation. Property values will continue to be assessed annually at just value based on market conditions, as required by state law.” 7. “Does this apply to rental homes, businesses, or second homes?” Response: “No. The proposed exemption applies only to homestead property. Other property types—such as non ‑ homestead residential, commercial property, and second homes—would continue to be taxed under current rules unless changed by other legislation.”

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STAYING APPRAISED

SPRING 2026