State & National

Gainesville, Newberry mayors push back on Florida property tax cut proposal

The Florida legislature has advanced a proposal that would go before voters in November to reduce or eliminate statewide property taxes, drawing sharp criticism from local leaders. Gainesville Mayor Harvey Ward argued the plan would shift the tax burden onto renters and small business owners while straining city budgets for services like public safety and road maintenance. Newberry Mayor Marden warned the measure could force cuts of up to 20 percent from that city’s budget.

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Sources: WUFT News · WCJB TV20

State & National

State attorney drops prosecution of Alachua County gun waiting period violations

State Attorney Brian Kramer informed Alachua County officials his office will no longer prosecute violations of the county’s five-day firearm purchase waiting period, citing a federal court settlement in which Florida conceded its own three-day waiting period violates the Second Amendment. Florida Attorney General James Uthmeier separately called the settlement a landmark victory, arguing government offices are obligated to defend constitutional rights. The decisions effectively end local enforcement of any cooling-off period beyond the time needed to complete a background check.

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Sources: WCJB TV20 · The Gainesville Sun

Community

Hoggetowne Medieval Faire could relocate to Gainesville Raceway

City and county commissioners are set to review a proposal Monday that would move the Hoggetowne Medieval Faire from Depot Park to the Gainesville Raceway, with the venue costing $80,000 for two weekends early next year. The larger space would allow for more performers, raising overall expenses, which organizers plan to offset through $25 ticket prices. Depot Park has hosted the faire for the past two years, but is considerably smaller than locations used in prior years.

Sources: WCJB TV20