April 26  • 10:30 P.M.

Tie breaker? With the Florida House and Senate at an impasse over the best way to provide immediate property tax relief to thousands of Florida homeowners, Gov. Charlie Crist today announced a plan he considers a reasonable compromise. His four-part program includes rolling back local property taxes for 2003 levels, with an allowance for inflation and population growth; doubling the homestead exemption to $50,000; Save Our Homes portability; a 25% property tax exemption for first-time homebuyers; and a $25,000 exemption in taxes for business equipment and other tangible personal property for businesses.

“This plan would provide immediate relief to both those who are barred from the American dream of owning their first home and those current homeowners who feel  unable to move and trapped by skyrocketing property taxes,” Governor Crist said in a press conference this afternoon.  “By providing immediate relief now along with a plan for future reductions, we can reverse the trend of high property taxes and make living in Florida more affordable.”

Tell lawmakers what property tax reform legislation means to your business. With the 60 day session scheduled to conclude next week, legislators need to hear that comprehensive property tax reform for commercial and residential real estate is needed NOW, during the regular session.

The House continues to push for a property tax/sales tax swap but the idea is flatly opposed in the Senate. Governor Charlie Crist recently indicated he does not support a sales tax increase, but wants more relief than what the Senate proposes. 

Please take a few minutes out of your busy schedule to convey the Realtor message to your legislator. Feel free to add your personal comments and real-life stories—such as describing the lock-in effect of Save Our Homes or lost homeownership dreams due to high property taxes.

Click the link below to log in and send your message:
http://votervoice.net/target.aspx?id=flar:14642706

Read more about the governor’s property tax reform plan:
http://www.charliecrist.com/news.php?id=14