City staff warns Nov. 2026 ballot could affect Hollywood property tax revenue

A City of Hollywood staff member told residents that a likely November 2026 ballot measure on property taxes could affect the city's ability to collect revenue that funds core municipal services.

The staff member said, "Property taxes for the city of Hollywood represent 46% of our total general fund budget," noting that such a change would have a direct effect on services residents rely on. "Think of the general fund as a city's checking account," the staff member added, explaining that the fund covers "public safety, police, fire, emergency management, code compliance, parks and recreation ... and public works, which is our roadways, our alleyways and our sidewalks."

The staff member contrasted property taxes with other taxes, saying sales taxes go to Tallahassee and income taxes fund the federal government, and described property taxes as "the most tangible form of taxation that we have." The speaker said the city does not yet know the final form of the ballot measure but expects there will be "some level of impact to our ability to collect property taxes."

City staff urged residents to stay informed about potential impacts on municipal government services and directed the public to the City of Hollywood website and the Florida League of Cities website for further information on what the measure could mean for residents, businesses and visitors. No formal proposal text, vote or council action on the measure was recorded in the meeting transcript.