Greater Naples Chamber to host panel discussion on property tax amendment Oct. 7

The Greater Naples Chamber will host Amendment 3: What It Means for Collier County on Wednesday, Oct. 7 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Hilton Naples, 5111 Tamiami Trail North.

The panel discussion will provide an opportunity for community members to better understand the proposed changes and what Amendment 3 could mean for Collier County property owners, businesses and the broader community. Panelists include Collier County Commissioner Bill McDaniel and North Collier Fire & Rescue Chief Eloy Ricardo.

The evening will begin with networking at 5 p.m., followed by the program at 5:30 p.m. An audience question-and-answer session will begin at 6 p.m., giving attendees an opportunity to engage in the conversation and learn more about the issues surrounding property taxes.

“Property taxes have far-reaching implications for our residents, businesses and community as a whole,” said Kristina Park, president and CEO of the Greater Naples Chamber. “This forum is an opportunity to bring our community together, provide information and create space for a thoughtful conversation about an issue that affects Collier County.”

Amendment 3, which will appear on the ballot in November, proposes several changes to Florida Constitution related to property taxes. If approved by 60% of Florida voters, the amendment would increase the homestead exemption for non-school property taxes to $150,000 in 2027 and $250,000 beginning in 2028. It would also reduce the annual cap on assessment increases for non-homestead properties, establish provisions affecting when new certain new residents can receive the increased exemption, and place additional limits on how local governments may use property tax revenue.

McDaniel serves as vice chairman of the Collier County Board of County Commissioners, representing District 5, which includes much of eastern Collier County and Immokalee. He brings extensive business and community experience. Prior to his election to the commission in 2016, he served on several local boards and committees, including the East of 951 Horizon Study Committee, Rural Lands Stewardship Overlay Review Committee and Collier County Housing Authority.

Ricardo leads North Collier Fire & Rescue District, overseeing all emergency response, fire suppression, rescue, emergency medical services, life safety and administrative operations. He began his career with the district in 2001 as a firefighter, advancing through the ranks before being appointed as fire chief. A dedicated public servant, Ricardo is involved in several professional and community organizations, including serving as a volunteer assistant football coach at Gulf Coast High School. In 2017, he was named State of Florida Professional Firefighter of the Year.  

Following the program, attendees are invited to continue the conversation at Shula’s Steakhouse Tavern at Hilton Naples.

The event is free, but seating is limited. Advance registration is encouraged. For more information or to register, visit napleschamber.org/events/save-the-date-property-tax-forum.