Marco Island projects 14% budget cuts under Amendment 3

Marco Island residents would save approximately $125 annually in property taxes if Amendment 3 passes, but city departments could face 14% budget reductions, according to a city analysis. The projected cuts would affect police, fire, public works, parks and other municipal services. A sample property tax bill posted by the city shows $705 of a $5,612 annual bill going to Marco Island, down from $831 before the proposed reduction. School district taxes, which account for a larger share of the bill, would remain unchanged. City officials warned that reduced revenue could affect projects, programs and services, potentially shifting costs to fees that would not qualify for homestead exemptions.