St. Petersburg Residents Overpaid Property Taxes by Millions, Claims Florida CFO

Florida CFO Claims St. Petersburg Residents Overpaid Property Taxes by Millions

St. Petersburg, FL — January 31, 2026 — Florida’s Chief Financial Officer, Blaise Ingoglia, alleges that St. Petersburg residents overpaid nearly $50 million in property taxes over the past six years. The city disputes these findings, emphasizing that tax revenues were used to meet growing demands and infrastructure investments.

City’s Response

Mayor Ken Welch stated that the conclusions do not reflect the full scope of city services and community priorities funded through the budget. The CFO’s office conducted a review indicating that the city’s general fund grew by approximately $133 million during this period, an increase of nearly 50%, while the population rose by about 11,500 residents. The analysis suggested that spending growth exceeded what would normally be expected from inflation and population increases.

Statewide Review

City officials strongly disputed the findings, maintaining that tax revenues were approved through the standard public budgeting process and used to meet growing demands. The CFO’s review is part of a broader statewide effort examining local government spending and property tax policy.

Sources

• WUSF: Florida CFO Brings Property Tax Cut Tour to St. Petersburg
• WQIK: Florida CFO Says St. Pete Residents Overpaid Nearly $50 Million in Taxes
• WMNF: The Scoop: Thurs. Jan. 29, 2026 Tampa Bay and Florida Headlines