Florida Property Tax Proposal Moves
Forward: What It Could Mean for Local Communities
Florida lawmakers are currently debating a proposal that could significantly reshape how property taxes work across the state. House Joint Resolution 203 (HJR 203), recently approved by the Florida House of Representatives, proposes a gradual reduction of certain property taxes on homesteaded homes. The measure now moves to the Florida Senate for consideration. If approved by both chambers of the Legislature, it would ultimately be placed before Florida voters in a future statewide referendum.
While the proposal is still working its way through the legislative process, it has already sparked significant discussion among policymakers, local governments, business organizations, and residents about how property taxes should be structured in Florida.
WHAT THE PROPOSAL WOULD DO
HJR 203 would gradually increase the homestead exemption applied to nonschool property taxes over a ten-year period. Non-school property taxes are the portion of a homeowner’s property tax bill that funds city governments, counties, and special districts. School district property taxes would not be affected by the proposal.
If implemented, the exemption would increase annually until most homesteaded properties would pay little or no municipal or county property tax. Because the proposal would amend the Florida Constitution, it would require approval by at least 60 percent of voters during the November General Election before taking effect.
POTENTIAL BENEFITS
Supporters of the proposal highlight the potential for meaningful tax relief for homeowners. By reducing or eliminating non-school property taxes on primary residences over time, the measure could lower housing costs for many Florida residents. For homeowners on fixed incomes or those experiencing rising property values, the change could provide additional financial stability.
Some observers also note that lower homestead taxes could make homeownership in Florida more attractive and help offset broader concerns about housing affordability. With the state continuing to experience population growth, proponents argue that reducing property tax continued on page 4
burdens on primary residences may help support long-term housing stability.
QUESTIONS ABOUT LOCAL REVENUE
At the same time, local governments across Florida are closely examining how the proposal could affect municipal and county budgets. Property taxes represent a major source of revenue for cities and counties, funding services such as police and fire protection, parks, infrastructure maintenance, and community programs.
Because HJR 203 targets non-school property taxes (those used to fund local governments) some policymakers and municipal leaders have raised questions about how cities and counties would replace the revenue if homestead property taxes decline over time. Potential alternatives could include adjustments to other taxes, fees, or revenue sources, though no specific replacement structure is included in the current proposal.
POTENTIAL EFFECTS ON BUSINESSES
Another topic of discussion has been how the proposal might affect commercial property owners and businesses. In many communities, both residential and commercial properties contribute to the overall property tax base. If homestead taxes are reduced significantly, some observers have suggested that local governments could face pressure to rely more heavily on other property types or revenue sources.
For businesses, and particularly small businesses that lease space, changes in commercial property taxes or other local revenue strategies could have indirect impacts on operating costs. At the same time, increased disposable income among homeowners could
also benefit local businesses through greater consumer spending.
A PROPOSAL STILL IN PROGRESS
It is important to note that HJR 203 remains under legislative consideration. The Florida Senate must still review and approve the measure before it could advance further. Even if it passes both chambers of the Legislature, the proposal would then need to be approved by voters in a statewide referendum before becoming law.
As the conversation continues in Tallahassee, the Weston business
community and local leaders will be watching closely. Property tax policy affects not only homeowners, but also local government operations, infrastructure investment, and the broader economic environment in which businesses operate.
The Chamber will continue monitoring the proposal and its potential implications for Weston and surrounding communities as the legislative process moves forward.
It is important to note that HJR 203 remains under legislative consideration.
Teachers of the Year Celebration set for April
24th
A strong local economy doesn’t happen by chance. It’s built through long-term investments in people, talent, and opportunity. One of the most powerful ways a community can support its economic future is by investing in education.
The students sitting in classrooms today are tomorrow’s entrepreneurs, engineers, healthcare professionals, teachers, and community leaders. When schools are supported and educators are empowered, the entire community benefits. A well-educated workforce attracts businesses, encourages innovation, and helps local companies grow and compete in an evolving economy.
Businesses play an important role in this equation. Across South Broward, many local companies support education through mentorship programs, scholarships, classroom partnerships, and volunteer
initiatives. These efforts help bridge the gap between education and career opportunities while demonstrating to students that their community believes in their potential.
The Chamber is proud to champion these connections between education and business through initiatives that support our schools and educators. Through the South Broward Foundation, we help fund high school scholarships, classroom grants, and nonprofit initiatives that directly benefit students and teachers in our community.
Each year, the Chamber celebrates the individuals who make a difference in education at our Annual Gold Star Breakfast. This special event honors every
local Teacher of the Year, recognizes outstanding Principals and Assistant Principals, and awards grants to each of our local high schools.
This year’s breakfast will take place on April 24th, and we invite the community to join us in celebrating these remarkable educators. Businesses and residents can also participate by donating to a scholarship in their company’s name or contributing to the Teacher of the Year gift baskets.
When we invest in education, we invest in the future strength of our community and economy. To learn more about how to participate or support these initiatives, connect with the Chamber and the South Broward Foundation. Now
The students sitting in classrooms today are tomorrow’s entrepreneurs, engineers, healthcare professionals, teachers, and community leaders.
Weston Welcomes The Divorce Lawyers to Brand New Offices
The Weston Florida Chamber of Commerce proudly shares the opening of a new Weston office for The Divorce Lawyers - Cabanas Law Firm, expanding access to experienced family law and divorce legal services for residents of Weston and the surrounding communities. Chamber members, local leaders, and community partners attended the official ribbon cutting ceremony to mark this milestone on Thursday, February 19th .
“This is our 10th office. We are very excited about it,” said Sergios Cabanas, Esq., Managing Attorney and Founder of Cabanas Law Firm. “We help bridge the gap to the court system and help [families] get the relief that they need to lead better lives. So I see it more than just a simple office and that this is just our 10th office and we’re growing. I see us as providing a noble, important service to our community, and that means much more to me to be able to serve people that need our legal services.”
The ceremony attendees had the opportunity to meet the legal team, tour the new office, and learn more about the services now available locally. Commissioner Byron Jaffee was on hand to welcome the firm to Weston.
The Divorce Lawyers, part of Cabanas Law Firm, provides dedicated legal representation in divorce and family
law matters, including child custody, support, and marital property issues. With a client-focused approach and a commitment to clear communication, the firm works to guide individuals and families through complex legal transitions with professionalism, care, and advocacy.
RECIPE OF THE MONTH
Honey Garlic Chicken & Veggies
INGREDIENTS
• 2 boneless chicken breasts, cubed
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup carrots, sliced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
INSTRUCTIONS
• 3 tbsp honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• Salt & pepper to taste
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook chicken until browned and cooked through. Add broccoli and carrots; sauté 4–5 minutes until tender-crisp.
Stir in honey, garlic, and soy sauce. Cook 2–3 minutes until coated and slightly thickened. Season with salt and pepper and serve over rice if desired.
South Florida’s Trusted Leader in Allergy
A Legacy of Excellence
For more than 50 years, Florida Center For Allergy & Asthma Care (FCAAC) has stood as the premier allergy and asthma practice in South Florida. Founded in 1974, FCAAC was built on a singular mission: to provide expert, compassionate, and highly specialized care to patients of all ages suffering from allergies, asthma, and immune system disorders. What began as a small practice has grown into one of the most recognized and trusted medical organizations in the tri-county region, serving thousands of patients across MiamiDade, Broward, and Palm Beach Counties.
Miami-Dade County (10 offices): Aventura, Coral Gables, Hialeah/Miami Lakes, Homestead, Kendall, Kendall Regional, Miami Beach, North Miami Beach, Palmetto Bay, and West Kendall.
Broward County (6 offices): Coral Springs, Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood/Emerald Hills, Pembroke Pines, Plantation, and Weston.
From its corporate headquarters in Fort Lauderdale, FCAAC continues to set the standard for allergy and asthma care, combining decades of clinical experience with cutting-edge treatments and a deeply patient-centered philosophy.
19 Convenient Locations Across South Florida
Accessibility has always been at the heart of FCAAC’s growth strategy. Today, the practice operates 19 offices spread across three counties, ensuring that expert allergy and asthma care is never far from home for South Florida residents.
Palm Beach County (3 offices): Boca Raton, Palm Beach Gardens, and Wellington.
A Team of 14 Expert
Board-Certified/BoardEligible Physicians FCAAC is home to 14 specialists, each either a Diplomate of the American Board of Allergy & Immunology, or board eligible alongside a dedicated team of 10 advanced practitioners. Together, they bring unmatched depth of expertise in
Allergy & Asthma Care Since 1974
treating both adult and pediatric patients. Every provider at FCAAC has completed rigorous fellowship training in Allergy and Immunology, ensuring the highest level of clinical care for every patient.
Comprehensive Services & Treatments
FCAAC offers a full spectrum of specialized allergy and asthma services designed to diagnose, treat, and manage conditions that impact patients’ daily lives. Their offerings include:
• Allergy Testing
• Asthma Management
• Immunotherapy (Allergy Shots)
• Eczema, Urticaria (Hives) & Contact Dermatitis
• Drug & Pet Allergy Evaluation
• Penicillin Allergy Testing:
• Sublingual Immunotherapy (SLIT) or Allergy Drops
• Food Allergy Center
• Biologics
• Research Center
With more than half a century of service, 19 locations, 14 board-certified physicians, and an unwavering commitment to patient-centered care, Florida Center For Allergy & Asthma Care remains South Florida’s most trusted name in allergy and asthma treatment. Whether you’re a new patient seeking answers or a long-time patient managing a chronic condition, FCAAC is here to help you breathe easy once again.
Florida Center For Allergy & Asthma Care 1-877-4-ALLERGY | florida-allergy.com
This article is a paid advertisement. The content was provided by the sponsor and does not necessarily reflect the views of this community or Seabreeze Communications.
Kind Of A Big Deal - Episode 4
Healing First: The Entrepreneur Who Turned Pain Into Purpose
On this episode of Kind of a Big Deal, Alejandro Larrazabal sits down with Shane, the founder of HealthPod, and the conversation quickly becomes bigger than business—it becomes about survival, reinvention, and what it really takes to keep going.
Shane shares a season of life that nearly broke him. About seven years ago, he says he was at rock bottom: overwhelmed by severe anxiety, depression, and DPDR—a kind of disconnect from reality that made daily life feel impossible. At his worst, he describes memory loss so intense he couldn’t even remember his wife’s name. He couldn’t drive. He couldn’t function. And the scariest part? The traditional system wasn’t giving him real answers.
Instead of accepting that as his new reality, Shane started searching. Learning. Testing. Paying attention to what his body was trying to say. That painful chapter became the
catalyst for HealthPod—a functional lab and recovery brand built around a simple idea: people shouldn’t have to guess their way back to feeling well.
What stands out most is how Shane connects health to performance. Not in a motivational-poster way—but in a real, practical way: when your body is off, your decisions suffer. Your energy drops. Your confidence shrinks. But when you start taking care of the foundation, everything gets sharper—your mind, your leadership, your ability to push through hard seasons.
He also offers advice that every entrepreneur needs to hear: fail fast. Not because failure is the goal, but because progress lives on the other side of trial, adjustment, and learning. If you’re willing to fail, you’re willing to grow.
This episode is a reminder that your hardest chapter might not be the end of your story— it might be the beginning of the work you were meant to build.
episode
INSERT VIDEO:
HTTPS://WWW.YOUTUBE.COM/ WATCH?V=Y6XIEIAJFKO&LIST=PLZLFUFGN2RQACZIC9SBVCSSVB7NZBPX6G&INDEX=3
SAVE THE DATE for our Dolphin Shootout
& Fishing Village
Homestead Bayfront Park
Saturday, June 6, 2026
Fishing begins at 6:00 AM | Fishing Village (FREE & Open to the Public)
12:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Join us for the South Florida’s PBA
Dolphin Shootout, a saltwater Mahi fishing tournament paired with a family-friendly waterfront Fishing Village experience cohosted by On The Water Daily. The fishing village is designed to be a place for family and friends to spend the day and watch the anglers bring in their Mahis to be weighed.
This one-day offshore tournament is open to PBA members, supporters, and community anglers. Boats may depart from any port, with the official weigh-in taking place on-stage at Homestead Bayfront Park between 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM. Awards will be presented on the main stage at 5:00 PM.
TOURNAMENT HIGHLIGHTS
Lines in at 6:00 AM
$10,000 for 1st Place Heaviest Mahi
On-stage weigh-in & awards ceremony
Competitive yet community-driven atmosphere
Fishing Village by @miamifriendors (FREE & Open to the Public)
Live music, DJ & line dancing by @orlandojmendezmusic @djillmanik
@southernsouldancing
Vendor marketplace
Food & beverage
Sponsor activations
Family-friendly waterfront setting
This is a Charity tournament where all proceeds benefit The Love Fund, supporting fallen officers and their families since 1984. The Love Fund is a charitable 501(c) (3) organization that fills a special need: it aids fallen officers and their families when no other funds are available to do so. Any money collected by the Love Fund helps pay for the funerals of officers killed in the line of duty, education for the children of fallen officers, and psychological counseling for officers and immediate family members impacted by the stress of the job.
Whether you’re fishing offshore or enjoying the festivities on land, this event brings together South Florida’s law enforcement, boating, and fishing communities for a day of purpose and celebration.
To sign up your team, become a sponsor, become a vendor visit: https://dcpba. org/saltwater-fishing-tournament/ or onthewaterdaily.com.
Getting Child Protection Right:
Why HB 47 Matters
REPRESENTATIVE ROBIN BARTLEMAN
April is Child Abuse Prevention Month, a time to reaffirm our commitment to protecting children and ensuring our child welfare system works as it should. This session, I passed HB 47: Specific Medical Diagnoses in Child Protective Investigations, to strengthen our child protection system while ensuring families are protected from wrongful child removals caused by medical misdiagnoses. HB 47 is narrow in scope and addresses a serious but specific problem –medically complex children.
During committee hearings, we heard from parents whose lives were turned upside down after bringing their infants to the ER for care. Diana Sullivan brought her 11-weekold daughter to the ER for a swollen thigh, she was accused of abuse, and her infant and children with no injuries were removed from her care. It took her 19-months of separation from her children and paying $300,000 in legal fees to obtain a second opinion. That second opinion confirmed that her daughter had Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a condition referenced in the initial Child Protection Team report but not fully investigated. Sara Michler faced a similar ordeal. Wrongly accused of shaken baby syndrome, she spent
11 months and nearly $100,000 fighting to regain custody of her child, missing irreplaceable milestones along the way. These stories highlight an important truth: medically complex children require medically informed investigations. A child wrongfully removed from a loving home suffers real harm. Certain medical conditions, including Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, osteogenesis imperfecta (brittle bone disease), rickets, and vitamin D deficiency, can cause symptoms that mimic signs of abuse. Under current procedures, when a child is found with unexplained injuries, parents do not have a clearly defined right to seek a second medical opinion after a removal. Parents deserve that right.
HB 47 is narrow in scope and strengthens, not weakens, child protective investigations. The bill authorizes a parent or legal custodian, after a child is removed, to request a second medical opinion and establishes clear timelines for that review. It creates a structured process for addressing conflicting diagnoses and requires the Department of Children and Families to promptly request a review of relevant medical records when a qualifying condition is identified.
Rotary Club of Weston’s 39th Annual Charity Golf Classic Providing Scholarships to Local High School
Students in Need, Where Every Swing, Changes a
Life
FHV LEGAL/ROTARY CLUB OF WESTON ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP GOLF TOURNAMENT, BEING HELD ON APRIL 27 AT THE CLUB AT WESTON HILLS.
The Rotary Club of Weston’s Scholarship Fund was established 39 years ago to assist local students achieve their dreams of attending college or vocational school. On Monday April 27th the group will hold its 39th Tournament at the prestigious Club at Weston Hills. Over 250 golfers are anticipated to tee off, enjoying a day
Child Protective Investigators play a vital role in keeping Florida’s children safe. This legislation ensures that when medically complex conditions are involved, we incorporate appropriate medical expertise and due process into the process. No one should be afraid of a second opinion. Protecting children means getting it right.
of comradery, food, drink and silent auction, while helping deserving kids from the surrounding community. With an expectation of raising over a quarter of a million dollars this year, the funds will be distributed at a Scholarship Breakfast on May 7th, where students who exhibited academic leadership, community service commitment, and a verified financial need, will learn of their award.
continued on page 18
Medically complex children require medically informed investigations. A child wrongfully removed from a loving home suffers real harm.
“We are only able to provide these scholarships to students in need because of the generous donations and support of our sponsors, including Freedland Harwin Valori and Gander, the Golf Title Sponsor for over 15 years, along with major sponsors like, Mohsin and Fauzia Jaffer Foundation, Jim & Donna Inglis, Gillman Homes, Acuderm, Hooters, and Bel Air Maintenance (BAM) .” said Deborah Richman, Scholarship Chair. “It is only because of the generosity of these businesses and individuals and the financial support from members of our Rotary Club of Weston, that we are able to continue to help deserving students with an opportunity to achieve their dreams of higher education. This is a real Community Effort!”
To apply for a scholarship, students from Cypress Bay, Western, HANDY, McFatter Tech, Boys and Girls Clubs, Guardian Ad Litem and Children’s Harbor must
complete a detailed application that include scholastic achievement, community service hours, extra-curricular activities, proof of financial need, and reference letters from teachers and administrators. These students are interviewed by members of the Scholarship Committee, who evaluate them using objective criteria and finally, make scholarship award determinations. Not only must the students demonstrate financial need, but also demonstrate qualities of character, reflecting Rotary’s motto “Service Above Self.”
For more information on how to get involved as a golfer or sponsor, visit WestonRotaryGolf.com.
The Rotary Club of Weston meets Thursdays at 7:30 AM at The Club at Weston Hills all guests are welcomed.
Weston 30
In 2026, the City of Weston proudly celebrates its 30th anniversary. Throughout the year, we will commemorate this milestone with historical features, interactive activities, tribute videos, and special giveaways at City events. This anniversary reflects thirty years of thoughtful growth and a strong sense of community that continues to define Weston.
Three decades of careful planning, responsible growth,
and strong community values have shaped Weston into the exceptional City we call home. This milestone offers an opportunity to reflect on our shared history while looking ahead to an even brighter future.
Be sure to stop by a City of Weston tent at upcoming events to receive your limited-edition Weston 30 commemorative pin and join the celebration. You can also stop by City Hall to take a selfie with our giant “30” display, featuring
historical photographs of Weston’s past, and explore an informational timeline highlighting key moments in our City’s history.
DO NOT MISS APRIL’S EVENTS
Spring in Weston is filled with signature events that showcase the diversity, culture, and vibrancy of our community. One of the highlights this season is Earth Day, The Weston Way, taking place on Saturday, April 18, 2026,
from 10 a.m. until 1 p.m. at Library Park. This family-friendly event features educational booths, hands-on activities, storytelling, music, and an opportunity to come together as a community while celebrating conservation and sustainability.
Weston Royal Egg Hunt
April 4 at Regional Park
10 a.m. – Noon, (arrive no later than 9:15 a.m.)
More than 40,000 colorful eggs for children ages 10 and under.
Weston Foreign Film Series
April 13 at AMC Weston 8 Showtimes at 4:45 p.m. and 7:30 p.m.
My Father’s Violin (Turkey) English subtitles
Earth Day, the Weston Way
April 18 at Library Park
10 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.
Celebrate sustainability and support environmentally friendly initiatives.
Family Autism Day
April 18 at Cypress Bay High School
10 a.m. – Noon
A day dedicated to awareness, inclusion, and community support.
Household Hazardous Waste Disposal & Electronics Recycling Event
April 26 at Public Works Services Center
9 a.m. – 3 p.m. Items that cannot be placed into the trash or put out for bulk pickup.
Just drive up and crews will remove items for you!
Weston’s calendar reflects the energy and spirit that make our City truly special. We look forward to seeing you at these events as we celebrate Weston 30 together.
Be sure to sign up for Weston’s weekly eNewsletter, Newsday Tuesday, to stay up to date on the latest events, programs, and information in the City.
Scan the QR code.
