Seminole County officials are warning residents about possible cuts to public safety if Amendment 3 passes in November.

The proposed constitutional amendment would increase the homestead exemption for a primary residence from about $50,000 to $150,000 in 2027, and $250,000 in 2028. It will need 60% approval from voters in November to pass.

During a Tuesday update before the Seminole County Board of Commissioners, county leaders said property taxes currently generate about $562 million. Public safety accounts for approximately 72% of that funding.

“And I always like to quote you, Chairman, when you say the math just doesn’t work,” the county manager said.

The county estimates Amendment 3 could result in a $119 million loss in revenue.

Seminole County Sheriff Dennis Lemma said his department could face a 20% reduction in funding, or about $41 million.

The sheriff warned that the cuts could lead to a hiring freeze, the loss of up to 300 patrol positions, delays in police equipment repairs and fewer salary adjustments.

“I know people will label me as fear-mongering,” the sheriff said. “You cannot reduce by 300 people and $41 million without a realistic expectation services are going to be compromised.”

Seminole County Fire Chief Matt Kinley said his department could face a 23% reduction in funding, amounting to more than $33 million.

Kinley said the cuts could delay capital projects, require the department to use reserve funds and result in fewer firefighters.

“Over the approximate five years we will be implementing a hiring freeze, which will equate to 20 or 24 people a year we would lose by attrition,” Kinley said.

Supporters of Amendment 3 say the measure would provide homeowners with additional tax savings by increasing the homestead exemption.

County officials say they will continue examining the potential effects of the amendment ahead of the November election.