Safety Harbor city manager projects $3.7 million budget cut if Amendment 3 passes

Safety Harbor officials are preparing for financial adjustments if Florida’s Amendment 3 is approved by voters. City manager Josh Stefanchik detailed the potential impact during the city commission meeting on Oct. 19. The analysis focuses on changes to the city’s general fund revenue structure under the proposed amendment.

The city began reviewing the amendment’s fiscal implications in advance of the election. Stefanchik compiled data to determine how a shift in funding mechanisms would affect municipal operations. The commission used this timeline to assess staffing and service levels before the public vote. This preparation follows standard practice for local governments facing state-level tax changes.

Stefanchik estimates the city’s 2029 general fund would decrease by $3.7 million. This figure represents a reduction of more than 16% of the current budget. The financial shortfall would require the city to adjust its spending plan. The manager noted that these projections assume the amendment passes and fully affects local revenue streams.

The budget cut could result in the loss of approximately 25 full-time city employees. Stefanchik indicated that staffing levels would be reviewed to align with the reduced revenue. Specific departments have not yet been identified for potential layoffs. The city will finalize its response once the election results are certified.

The city commission will continue to monitor the election outcome in the coming weeks. No additional public meetings have been scheduled specifically to discuss Amendment 3 preparations. The 2029 budget cycle will incorporate the final financial figures once the amendment status is confirmed.