Scott

There are 67 sheriffs in Florida and many of them are excellent. One of my favorites and probably yours too is Grady Judd of Polk County. All 67 sheriffs, including Grady Judd, are against Amendment 3 in Florida and are loudly advocating for its defeat by voting NO. I voted YES, you should too. Why are sheriffs for it? Property tax is their play ground. Let's look at Grady's spending increase in Polk County since 2020. From 2019–20 to 2023–24: The Polk County Sheriff's Office budget GREW from approximately $173 MILLION to nearly $236 million, representing an increase of about 36% over four years. FROM 2022–23 to fiscal 2023–24: The budget jumped by $32.7 million. Grady Judd has asked for $297 MILLION for 2026-27. That is $120+ MILLION increase in only 6 years. On top of the budget, Judd has requested new toys: A new plane, a $1.9 million helicopter, specialized all terrain vehicles. (All are great for the parades) Grady Judd will say its all needed because of rapid Polk County growth. The county has exploded in the period. Population has increased by 20% to 875,000, but Grady Judd's spending has increased from $173 MILLION to $297 MILLION in 6 years, a 70% increase. Florida's sheriffs need to learn their unlimited funds are finally limited, just like the budgets of the population they protect, and Amendments 1 and 2 can eliminate their fear of need. If there is an actual emergency or need, the state legislature can address it through legislation from a larger rainy day fund addressed in amother Amendment. Don't be fooled by the fear porn propagated by Grady Judd and 66 other sheriffs as they try to keep the cookie jar open. CLOSE IT!! YES YES YES On Amendments 1, 2 and 3 in Florida. I love Grady Judd, but he is using his office as a bully pulpit instead of responsibly spending tax payer money.