The Venice area Chamber of Commerce is sponsoring an open “conversation” at the Venice Community Center on Wednesday, August 12 from 8 to 10 a.m. to inform residents of the potential impact of FL constitutional Amendment 3, which will appear on ballots this November. This amendment is not sponsored by a citizen initiative, but from the governor and legislature. Although a reduction in property taxes (via an increase in exemptions) sounds initially appealing, speakers will explain the potential negative consequences for towns like Venice, which would be faced with making up for a shortfall in what has long been its largest source of income, as well as increased state control over how local revenue may be spent. The featured presenters are Jonathan Lewis, the Sarasota County Administrator, and Venice’s Town Manager, James Clinch. The Venice Community Center is located at 326 Nokomis Ave. S., Venice, FL 34285. This meeting will not be available online.
