JACKSONVILLE, Fla. — On social media, First Coast News asked viewers if their property tax bills were higher than usual this year.
The overwhelming response was yes, but many of you wondered why.
First Coast News asked the Duval County Tax Collector that question.
The tax collector's office said a voter approved law in August 2022 put in place a 1 mill property tax increase, which is $1 in property taxes for each $1,000 of taxable property value.
For example, if you're home's taxable value is at $300,000 then you will be paying $300 in additional property tax this year.
The referendum was approved 53% of voters and generates money for boosting teacher pay and improving arts and athletics in Duval County Public Schools.
The tax collector's office said the increase has nothing to do with the Jaguars proposed stadium renovation.
Andrew Bachmann said his property taxes went up around 14% this year and said it was the highest they've been in the 30 years he's lived in Jacksonville.
“It is hard I don’t have the income coming in. I’m a mortgage loan officer and mortgage rates are at 29-year highs, so my income has dropped significantly and I’m working on some side hustles. That’s how I’m dealing with it," Bachmann said.