LADY LAKE, FL (352today.com) – The Town of Lady Lake announced it will not be holding its annual Christmas parade this year, citing budget and resource constraints as well as the potential loss of tax revenue that Amendment 3 might bring if passed in November.
“This was an extremely difficult decision. The town understands how much the Christmas Parade means to our community and recognizes the time, effort and enthusiasm that residents, businesses, organizations and families bring to this tradition each year,” read the announcement, in part. “Town staff and leadership share in the disappointment of not being able to continue the event this year.”
The announcement offered the cost of personnel associated with the tradition—approximately $15,000—as an example of how much the Christmas parade costs to produce each year, calling it “one of the town’s most resource-intensive special events.”
“Given current financial constraints, the Town determined that holding the parade this year would not be fiscally responsible,” read the announcement. “Going forward, the town’s ability to hold community events will be largely dependent on fundraising, sponsorships and other outside support—not taxpayer funds—to help offset the costs associated with staffing, operations and event production.
“The Town appreciates the community’s understanding and support as it works to balance fiscal responsibility with the programs, services and traditions that are important to Lady Lake. Future events will be evaluated based on available funding, fundraising efforts, resources and operational needs.”
Amendment 3, on the statewide Florida ballot in November, proposes to increase the state’s homestead non-school property tax exemption from $50,000 to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 in 2028; many experts contend that, if passed, the amendment will result in a considerable shortfall of tax revenue for many of Florida’s counties and municipalities.