FAR is happy to report that your messages to the Florida Tax and Budget Reform Commission (TBRC) were heard. In just over 30 hours Realtors from around the state sent over 50,000 messages to the Commission!

Today, the TBRC formally adopted CP 002, which if passed by voters in November will eliminate the state’s required local effort for schools portion of property taxes in 2010. The proposed constitutional amendment also places a 5% assessment cap on non-homestead property — beginning next year. It allows the Legislature to make up the $9 billion to schools in a number of ways, including raising the sales tax by up to 1 cent. Past-President Nancy Riley, who is a member of the TBRC, voted in favor of the proposal.

This is a big victory for Realtors, property owners struggling under crushing tax bills, and businesses who will see their tax bills limited by a lower, permanent assessment cap. Most importantly, Commissioners heard your voice and agreed with it — sending CP 002 and other important proposals to the November ballot is the right thing to do.

Thank you for being a part of the solution to this property tax problem. Please look for other possible Calls-to-Action over the next week. Stay tuned to the FAR website for more updates. And again, thank you.