TAMPA, Fla. — Hillsborough County commissioners will hold a public hearing on Wednesday to discuss changes to the county's investment policy, which could allow them to invest in bonds backed by Israel.

The board will hear from residents on the issue before making a final decision.

County commissioners have overwhelming supported changes to the investment policy ordinance.

Commissioner Michael Owen initially proposed changes to the ordinance last fall after the Oct. 7 attack on Israel, saying it was a quote critical moment in history.

But since then, there has been pushback from pro-Palestinian groups.

Wednesday’s commission vote follows a proclamation supporting Israel Tuesday in Manatee County.

Michael Igel, interim CEO of the Florida holocaust Museum, said the support of local governments for Israel is a show of support.

“It provides immense support to the only democracy in the Middle East, to a friend of America and a friend of so many Americans,” said Igel. “And just like America, not a perfect place, but certainly one that doesn’t deserve even a thumbnail of the inaccuracies and lies that we are experiencing right now.”

Meanwhile, the Council on American-Islamic Relations said the purchase of Israeli bonds is not a responsible move with taxpayer money. 

“Economically, this is not good for Tampa taxpayers and Florida taxpayers,” said CAIR Policy Manager Mari Marks. “Because there is a lot of evidence out there that the Israeli economy is struggling quite a lot."

The ordinance changes on Wednesday, if approved, would not force the county to purchase Israeli bonds — it would only allow for their purchase.

The county, up until now, has not indicated it was even interested in buying Israeli bonds, only having the option to do so.