JUPITER, Fla. — October 21, 2026 — The Jupiter Town Council voted 4-1 Tuesday night to formally oppose Florida’s proposed Constitutional Amendment 3, joining other Palm Beach County municipalities in raising concerns about the potential financial impact of property tax reform on local governments.
The vote came during the council’s October 20 meeting, where officials debated the need to provide tax relief to homeowners while protecting funding for essential public services.
Resolution 130-26 aligns Jupiter with the Palm Beach County League of Cities, which adopted a position opposing the proposed amendment in August.
Mayor Jim Kuretski delivered some of the evening’s strongest criticism, warning that the measure could have serious consequences for municipalities across Florida.
“I think that Amendment 3 is a train wreck on local government,” Kuretski said.
Council members expressed concern that changes to property tax collections could affect municipal budgets, special districts and agreements between local governments.
Councilor Malise Sundstrom, who presented the resolution, said the issue extends beyond Jupiter’s finances. She pointed to the potential impact on neighboring communities and organizations that depend heavily on property tax revenue to provide services.
The discussion also highlighted concerns about whether smaller municipalities could remain financially viable under the proposed changes.
Vice Mayor Calls for Homeowner Relief
Vice Mayor Phyllis Choy cast the lone dissenting vote, arguing that homeowners need meaningful relief from rising property tax burdens.
Choy disclosed her position on the Florida Realtors Association Board of Directors and said she understood the concerns raised by municipalities.
“We definitely need tax relief for our homeowners,” Choy said. “There is no question whatsoever.”
Although acknowledging that the proposal could create challenges for local governments, Choy said the need for homeowner relief remained a priority.
Mayor Points to Jupiter’s Tax Record
Kuretski defended the town’s approach to property taxes, saying Jupiter has reduced its municipal millage rate for 15 consecutive years.
According to the mayor, those reductions amount to approximately 28 percent over that period.
He also criticized disparities between homeowners who purchased properties at different times, arguing that the proposed amendment would not adequately address inequities associated with Florida’s existing property tax system.
Council members supporting the resolution said they would prefer a more comprehensive review of property tax policy through the Florida Taxation and Budget Reform Commission.
The resolution directs town officials to share Jupiter’s position with state officials and the Palm Beach County Legislative Delegation.
What Happens Next?
Florida voters are scheduled to consider Amendment 3 in the November 3 election.
Tuesday’s vote does not change the proposed amendment or prevent residents from supporting it. Instead, it establishes Jupiter’s official opposition and adds the town’s voice to a broader discussion about balancing homeowner tax relief with the cost of providing local services.
The final vote was 4-1, with Vice Mayor Phyllis Choy opposed.
