A Taxing Dilemma

As most of you are aware by now, the proposed "Superexemption" property tax amendment was removed from the January 29, 2008 ballot by Leon County circuit court judge Charles Francis. While this move is clearly disappointing to many expecting huge property tax relief, we must overlook this gaff find the good in an otherwise poor decision. Florida Governor Charlie Crist and others are feverishly working to put together another tax relief bill and get it in front of Florida voters for the January primaries. In order to do that, lawmakers need to finalize a new plan, likely with less "oomph", and submit it by the end of October, 2007...the constitutional deadline for putting a new amendment on the January 29, 2008 presidential primary ballot. Maybe this one won't confuse judge Francis.

As a strong part of his election campaign, Crist spoke of Save Our Homes portability and doubling the homestead exemption...and he may have to stick with that premise for now. While Crist and others who are forging tax relief proposals are avoiding making criticisms about Francis' ruling, they are optimistic about the opportunity to provide what they hope will be a better plan. Even if there is some kind of relief put on the ballot, it doesn't necessarily mean that this will be the end of Crist's efforts. Crist has said that he will continue to fight for property tax reform for Florida until a dramatic solution is in place.

Meanwhile, the first phase of the original plan has already taken place...freezing tax rates and telling Florida's Counties and Cities to trim the fat. But, believe it or not, there are those out there who want to ruin the party we've all been invited to. Enter Weston Mayor Eric Hersh, County Commissioner Ilene Lieberman, Fort Lauderdale City Commissioner Carlton Moore, Hallandale Beach Mayor Joy Cooper and a slew of others. They don't seem to want to be told how much tax revenue they can squeeze out of Florida residents...or how to spend it. While at this point some of them are only vowing to get involved in suing the State over this benefit to taxpayers, Hersh has already cried foul and put his foot in the mud. Hersh sued claiming the reliefs were illegal and that the Florida constitution gives the local governments the authority to impose taxes up to $10 per $1,000 of assessed value. Apparently Hersh wants access to the whole enchilada. Even after Francis made one good decision by telling him no, and that the Legislature has the power to limit that authority, Hersh says he and his attorney have grounds to contend Francis' ruling as incorrect.

Makes you wonder if Hersh or the others would support ANY property tax relief, after all, the money that would go back into the pockets of Florida's citizens would have to come from somewhere. Seems like he would rather be able to spend your money than to have the opportunity to do something about out of control taxes.