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Time is running out for state lawmakers to made a deal to cut property taxes. The deadline is next Tuesday, October 30th. But one way they could buy more time is to move the primary back to February. The move would serve two purposes, giving lawmakers more time to make a deal that voters will approve, and secondly, it would give both Democrats and Republicans all of their delegates to national conventions. Both parties are being penalized and losing delegates because of the early primary, but state GOP Chairman Jim Greer says don’’t look for the primary to move to February.

“I think the primary is going to be on the 29th,” Greer said. ”Republicans in Florida are looking forward to it and I don’’t anticipate any change in that date.”

––Does it matter to you whether property taxes are on that ballot or not?

“The party is not involved in policy,” Greer replied. “We’re involved in getting Republicans elected. And we’re very enthused and looking forward to the 29th.”

Governor Charlie Crist remains optimistic state lawmakers will reach a deal on property taxes.

“I believe that the 30th is the day. Probably at 11:59 p.m. That is the time. There is a deadline. And I think we will meet it.”

But others are less optimistic. The state Senate won’’t even decide if it comes back to the Capitol next week until Friday.