Informational Meeting Jan. 24 on Proposed Property Tax Increase
- Details
-
Published on Saturday, 14 January 2012 21:23
The vote for presidential candidates running in the Florida primary Jan. 31 won't have an immediate effect on anyone's taxes or local services, but a referendum question on the same ballot will.
The Immokalee Fire Control District, which includes the town of Ave Maria, is asking for an increase in the millage rate to fund its fire and rescue services to 3.75 mills from the current level of 3 mills. The proposed new rate is the highest allowable in the state of Florida.
Representatives from the fire control district are holding an informational meeting Tuesday, Jan. 24, at 6:30 p.m. at the Ave Maria Master Associaiton offices in the town center to discuss the proposed increase and answer questions from residents.
Lower ad valorem tax revenues resulting from the decrease in home values has left many fire control districts in southwest Florida with significant budgetary challenges.
The Immokalee Fire Control District has laid off six firefighters, reduced salaries, left positions vacant and entered into temporary agreements to share services -- including the chief -- with neighboring Big Corkscrew Fire District.
More information about the proposed change can be found in two documents provided by the district:
Click here for a flyer about the meeting, with information on why the tax change is being requested.
Click here for a letter to voters explaining the referendum.
