85 Semnături
Colectia terminata
Petiția se adresează: Marion County Taxing Authority
The proposed 2026 property tax increase in Marion County, Florida, unfairly burdens homeowners at a time when our local economy is already strained. The Marion County Taxing Authority claims property values are rising, but the data tells a different story.
- Home values in Marion County have declined 2.8% year-over-year, with a statewide drop of 4.8%, indicating a softening market rather than rising values as claimed.
- Inventory has surged 40- 50% compared to last year, a clear sign of decreasing property values due to oversupply.
- Sales activity is down significantly, in comparison to the same point last year, reflecting reduced demand and further pressure on values. Homes are on the market much longer. Another indication of a trend of decreasing home values.
- 55+ Homeowners are being hit hardest with the highest inventory on the market and experiencing the steepest decreases in market value.
This proposed tax increase—adding hundreds of dollars to residents’ bills—ignores market realities and places an undue financial strain on our community. By signing this petition, we demand that the county reject the proposed increase and utilize a decrease in property taxes that aligns with the current economic conditions. Together, we can protect our neighbors, preserve affordability, and hold our local government accountable.
motive
The letter that accompanies this petition to the Tax Authority is below.
A letter will also be sent to Governor DeSantis, asking for an audit of Marion County Government financials. That evaluation should focus on potential mismanagement of funds and trace financial contributions to elected officials, county assessors, and inspectors.
Marion County Taxing Authority
c/o PO Box 486
Ocala, FL 34478-0486
Dear Marion County Taxing Authority Members,
I am writing on behalf of our community in Marion County to strongly oppose the proposed property tax increase for 2026. As residents, we are already facing economic pressures, and this tax increase is unjustified given the current real estate market trends.
Key facts supporting our opposition include:
- Home values in Marion County have declined 2.8% year-over-year, with a statewide drop of 4.8%, indicating a softening market rather than rising values as claimed.
- Inventory has surged 40- 50% compared to last year, a clear sign of decreasing property values due to oversupply.
- Sales activity is down significantly, in comparison to the same point last year, reflecting reduced demand and further pressure on values. Homes are on the market much longer. Another indication of a trend of decreasing home values.
- 55+ Homeowners are being hit hardest with the highest inventory on the market and experiencing the steepest decreases in market value.
These trends contradict the authority's assertion of increased property values and suggest the tax proposal overlooks the economic reality for homeowners. We urge you to reconsider and prioritize fiscal responsibility over unnecessary increases.
Enclosed is a petition signed by residents of Liberty Village protesting the proposed tax increase, demonstrating widespread community opposition.
Additionally, please be advised that a letter will be sent to Governor Ron DeSantis recommending that he deploy the state's DOGE team to evaluate Marion County Government operations.
This evaluation should focus on potential mismanagement of funds and trace financial
contributions to elected officials, county assessors, and inspectors to ensure transparency and accountability.
We appreciate your attention to this matter and request a decision that truly serves our community.
Sincerely,
Lisa Arbuckle
President
Liberty Village HOA
Informații privind petiția
Petiția a început:
02.09.2025
Colecția se termină:
04.09.2025
Regiune:
Comitatul Marion
categorie:
Taxe
Dezbatere
5 to 10 years ago the properties in question was woods/pasture and producing minimal tax revenue. NOW, same plot is producing quantitatively and significantly more in revenue. QUESTION: What are these increased dollars producing ?? Where is the infrastructure that an increase in taxes warrant??
Niciun argument CONTRA încă.
