Lakeland property-tax rate and budget face Amendment 3 pressure

Lakeland commissioners appear aligned on maintaining the 5.4323 millage rate, with a required five-member vote scheduled for September 24, 2026. Amendment 3 could reduce annual city revenue by an estimated $14.5 million, raising the prospect of departmental cuts of up to 10% and making service levels, public input, and alternative revenues key accountability issues.