The new proposed budget received by the Hernando County Commission included a 6% property tax rate increase. According to the Hernando County’s budget director, George Zoettlein, due to the fall in property values the increase would still ensure that 70% of the county’s homeowners with the homestead exemption would see a decrease in their property taxes.

However, Hernando County Commissioners, Jim Adkins and Dave Russell agree that the current rate when compared to the past tax rate shows that county is where it needs to be and will not support the tax increase. Other commissioners are in limbo with the idea and will only look to a tax increase as a last resort.

The first of the two budget hearings are scheduled for September 14, 2010 at 5:00.