Placement: Second Reading of Ordinances / Public Hearing
Action Requested: Motion / Vote
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Ordinance 21-96, Public Hearing, An Ordinance of the City of Port St. Lucie, Florida, Calling for a Special Referendum Election to Renew the Economic Development Ad Valorem Tax Exemptions for Certain New Businesses and Certain Expansions to Existing Businesses; Providing for Ballot Language; Providing for Notice of Election; Providing for Delivery to the Supervisor of Elections; Providing for Severability; Providing for Conflicts; Providing for an Effective Date.
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Submitted By: Frank Moehrle, Deputy City Attorney
Strategic Plan Link: The City's Goal of a diverse local economy and employment opportunities.
Executive Summary (General Business): The Florida Constitution and Section 196.1995, Florida Statutes, permit the City to grant economic development ad valorem tax exemptions to new businesses and expansions of existing businesses upon approval of the voters at referendum. In 2010, the City Council requested the authority to grant such economic development ad valorem tax exemptions, which was approved via referendum for a period of ten (10) years. Pursuant to Section 196.1995(7), Florida Statutes, the authority to grant economic development ad valorem tax exemptions expires ten (10) years after the date such authority was approved in an election. The City's authority to grant such tax exemptions may be renewed for subsequent ten-year periods if each ten-year renewal is approved by referendum. The City’s economic development ad valorem tax exemption program has been codified in the City’s Code of Ordinances, Chapter 115.
Presentation Information: The City Attorney and City Manager will be available to answer questions if necessary.
Staff Recommendation: Move that the Council Move that the Council complete the motion in the affirmative.
Alternate Recommendations:
1. Move that the Council amend the recommendation and complete the motion in the affirmative.
2. Move that the Council reject the motion and provide staff direction.
Background: A special election is already schedule for December 7, 2021.
Issues/Analysis: If approved, upon Second Reading, it is anticipated a referendum election seeking voter approval to renew economic development ad valorem tax exemptions will be held on December 7, 2021.
Financial Information: N/A
Special Consideration: N/A
Location of Project: N/A
Attachments: Ordinance 21-__
NOTE: All of the listed items in the “Attachment” section above are in the custody of the City Clerk. Any item(s) not provided in City Council packets are available upon request from the City Clerk.
Internal Reference Number: 7113
Legal Sufficiency Review:
Reviewed by Frank Moehrle, Deputy City Attorney. Approved as to Legal form and sufficiency by James D. Stokes, City Attorney.