TANGIBLE PROPERTY TAXES

[Muriel]

History: Melbourne, Florida (BREAVARD COUNTY) = 55+ Community

We have been receiving a Tangible Property Tax for years on carports, sheds, Florida rooms, driveways and skirting.

2002 taxes originally increased 300%. Our tax assessor has used one of three methods to compute the new taxes, REPLACEMENT COST. Outrageous, is the only word that comes to our minds. The development is app. 25 years old.

We have had a meeting here with his staff and yes they lowered the rate to app. 150% increase but he feels that the Dept. of Revenue supports him even though the County Commissioners want to investigate this matter in depth. He feels that he does not ANSWER to them.

My question to you out there is:

WHAT IS THE METHODLOGY USED IN GENERAL FOR THESE INCREASES IN OTHER COUNTIES IN FLORIDA AS WELL AS OTHER STATES. I AM TRYING TO GET ALL THE INFORMATION I CAN TO BE ABLE TO PREPARE FOR A WORKSHOP WITH THE TAX ASSESSOR ANDCOUNTY COMMISSIONERS IN JANUARY?

Thanking you in advance for your cooperation and courtesy.

[rmurray]

Tangible personal property tax is not collected in all states...This is a result of the no income tax and constitutionally imposed advelorum tax cap in Florida...
I agree with you that personal property should only be taxed on its value..not replacement cost..This must be a a new tactic for the counties to raise revenue...Do not let the county commission fool you...they do not have to collect the tax..they do not have to spend the tax...they set the millage rate and they can lower it to offset the increase in the valuations...Remember some of this tax goes to the school board..they can do the same if they wish..
If I were you I would also be talking to your legislators as well...The Florida House and Senate can change this policy as well....
When I lived in Florida...I always thought tangible personal property tax should only be charged to businesses or have a large exemption for individuals..
Keep up the fight..