Report: Super exemptions could drain millions

If Florida voters approve the proposed super homestead exemption, be prepared for some deep repercussions, Pinellas County leaders say.

If the second part of the state's plan to curtail property tax revenues passes in January, Clearwater officials say recreation centers and a library could face the chopping block. Largo says it could end up doing away with an after-school program and a nature park. And St. Petersburg says it may impose higher fees to participate in park programs.

The discussions come as the county property appraiser's office this week tallied up "worst case scenario" impacts for governments thoughout the county if the new exemption is approved. The results? Anywhere from a paltry $39,000 hit for Belleair Beach to more than $43-million in the county's general fund.

"Recreation, law enforcement and fire services certainly won't make this round of cuts," Pinellas County Commissioner Ken Welch said. "More jobs, more services, everything. You can't squeeze blood from a turnip and we're at that point."

The total hit for the St. Petersburg would be about $10.4-million. In Clearwater, the hit is calculated at $3.6-million. Other totals include $2-million in Largo and $1.2-million in Dunedin.

Mike Donilla, Times staff writer