Dear Friend,
Our beautiful climate is just one of the many wonderful advantages that draws visitors to escape winter in Palm Beach County. Fondly referred to as “snowbirds”, they contribute a lot of revenue and vitality to our local economy, businesses and community during their stay.
Staying with the subject of tourism, I am so pleased to share the great news that my office has reached a $1.9 million settlement with the major Online Travel Companies (OTC) for uncollected Tourist Development Tax aka “bed tax”. A "bed tax" of 5 cents per dollar is levied on all Palm Beach County hotel stays of 6 months or less. Revenue from bed tax collections is used to promote Palm Beach County tourism, fund our vibrant cultural programs and beach restoration.
I filed suit against OTCs in the Palm Beach County Circuit Court in July, 2009. Defendants in our litigation include Expedia, Orbitz, Priceline and Travelocity. The suit alleged the OTCs did not pay the county's tourist development tax as authorized by Florida Statute 125.0104 and County Code 17-111. Defendants agreed to collectively pay over $1.9 million in uncollected Tourist Development Tax aka “bed tax”.
This revenue is sorely needed during this tight budget year. A special thanks to our talented legal team who worked so hard over the past three years. They include Palm Beach County attorneys Jeff Liggio, Esq., Lou Silber, Esq., and John Romano, Esq.
Let’s turn our attention on property taxes. February is the last month to receive a discount for payments. All payments in February receive a 1 percent discount. Payments must be received or postmarked by February 29, 2012.
If making one lump sum payment is breaking the bank you can catch a break by enrolling in the Installment Payment Plan (IPP) option for property taxes. The plan allows property owners to pay in quarterly installments rather than one lump sum. To enroll in the IPP simply return a completed application to our office by close of business April 30th. If you are already enrolled, you do not need to reapply for the 2012 tax season. Download an application from our website or pick one up at any of our offices.
The influx of visitors during the season is a great thing for our county. It’s also a reminder of what we sometimes take for granted. We live in paradise. I hope you can make time to enjoy our beautiful weather, pristine beaches, wonderful restaurants and parks.
Sincerely,
Anne
