FOCUS ISSUES
Considering today's face, and tomorrow's face of the City of Seminole.
Property valuations have increased dramatically the past few years. The sale of property at these much higher assessed values has brought an influx of new revenue to the taxing authorities. Every time you have seen a For Sale sign go up/come down, note that that sale has generated huge increases in ad valorem taxes for your neighborhood. How is it that with this dramatic increase in revenue for spending on public services, less and less people can afford to live here?
Seminole's millage rate has declined since 1993 to its present 2.75. We here in Seminole enjoy a low tax rate, and great services. I appreciate the situation we find ourselves in, but realize that there are reasons that we find ourselves in this position. Now there are questions we must ask regarding our ability to continue on this path.
Since the property valuation growth has slowed, we cannot expect that continued growth rate of revenue. As Seminole residents, and as a potential Member of our City Council, we must ask: has local government anticipated the slow down of new revenue from property taxes, and has it adjusted its budget accordingly? Is Seminole prepared for a resulting slow down in spending?
Has this substantial rise in taxes collected been earmarked for new, or higher expenses, or has/is local Seminole government able to save any of the newly created tax revenue? If so, how/where?
Home valuations will likely remain at these higher levels. This affects the face of Seminole today and tomorrow, in a number of ways. There are serious considerations we need to address about the affordability of housing in Seminole.
Please vote for Plantamura on March 11.