A time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;.....a time to weep, and a time to laugh...a time to get, and a time to lose....a time to keep silence, and a time to speak!

Now is the time to speak out if you are concerned about the property taxes on your home or business. The State Legislature just adjourned without resolving the issue, but will meet again in June for final discussions and a vote on the matter. Several options are on the table. The House of Representatives seems poised to possibly eliminate all ad valorem (property) taxes on our homes and business in exchange for an increase in sales tax to as much as 8 ½ cents on the dollar. The Senate, on the other hand, seems unwilling to give any substantial property tax relief except over an extended period of time of about five years. The question, therefore, is whether people and our economy can hold out for several years under the Senate plan, while people are stuck with high taxes and not being able to sell their homes. Apparently, many people are not willing to wait on the Senate, as “For Sale” signs seem to be sprouting up everywhere.

If all this affects you in some way, then now is the time to act. Your State Representatives and Senators are listed below. Speak to them by email, letter or in person now, or you may as well “forever hold your peace”!

David Eller
Publisher

Contact State Legislators with your opinion about Property taxes, NOW!

House of Representatives
Rep. Ellyn Bogdanoff, District 91, Phone: 850-488-0635, bogdanoff.ellyn@myfloridahouse.com
Rep. Adam Hasner, District 87, Phone: 850-488-2234.
Rep. Jack Seiler, District 92, Phone: 850-488-0880.
Senate
Sen. Jeffrey H. “Jeff” Atwater, District 25, Phone: 850-487-5100, atwater.jeff.web@flsenate.gov.
Sen. Ted Deutch, District 30, Phone: 850-487-5091, deutch.ted.web@flsenate.gov.
Sen. M. Mandy Dawson, District 29, Phone: 850-487-5112, dawson.mandy.web@flsenate.gov.