09/29/2026
Dear Friends of the Rocky Bluff Library,
We want to share important information regarding Amendment #3, a ballot measure that puts our library system at uncertain risk.
Facts on Amendment 3
On November 3rd, Florida voters will decide on Amendment 3, a constitutional amendment that will significantly raise the homestead property tax exemption, lower the cap on how much non-homestead property assessments can rise each year, and limit how local governments can use tax funds. It needs 60% voter approval to pass.
While reducing property taxes is a worthwhile goal for all Floridians, Amendment #3 is a tax shift rather than a tax cut. There is no state plan for replacing dollars that will be lost to communities. Local governments will have to make hard decisions about what services will be reduced as they try to balance their budgets.
The Manatee Library system gets more than 99% of its budget from this dedicated property tax revenue. If Amendment #3 passes, the Florida Policy Institute estimates that Manatee County will lose $212,300,000 in property tax revenue in the first year, with more in subsequent years. A countywide hiring freeze has already reduced library staff by nearly 30% and, as a result, library hours were cut back on August 1.
Potential Impact of Amendment #3 on Manatee County Libraries
• Continued hiring freeze will result in additional loss of experienced library staff members through attrition;
• Reduced hours that libraries are open – which began August 1 with more cuts anticipated;
• Fewer program offerings including story hours, technology training, adult programs, and tax preparation help;
• Fees for popular databases and e-books;
• Fewer new books and other resources will be ordered;
• Plans will be tabled for a new library at Mixon Farms; and
• Uncertainty of staff available for the new bookmobile which is due to arrive in this Fall…with no definite date yet!
It’s not just about libraries
Property taxes are the largest source of funding for Manatee County’s general fund which provides for the services residents rely on every day including police, fire, emergency services, parks, public libraries and other community services.
We are concerned.
Our goal is to educate library users and supporters about the value of our public libraries and the peril of Amendment #3 to their future.
Now, it’s your turn. Think about it! What makes Manatee County a great place to live and work? For seniors, families, teens and children? For corporations, small businessowners, job seekers and retirees? What kind of community do you want to live in?
We won’t suggest how you vote on November 3 … but we do ask you to think about!
Thank you,
