Tampa Bay Tax Rates Stable or Lower, Homeowners Gain Value

Tampa Bay's largest cities and counties mostly lowered or maintained property tax rates, but rising property values may increase homeowners' bills. Pinellas County set its lowest rate since 1989 after budget cuts. St. Petersburg kept its rate steady, generating $14.8 million more for hurricane recovery. Hillsborough County lowered its rate slightly, offset by a service tax increase. Tampa maintained its rate, which is above the revenue-neutral level.