Fort Lauderdale City Commission Adopts Resolution Supporting Amendment 6
City Joins Effort to Protect Waterfronts and Preserve Marine Industry
Chaz Adams, Sr. Public Information Specialist
(954) 828-4748 or chazadams@fortlauderdale.gov
Fort Lauderdale - At its most recent meeting, the Fort Lauderdale City Commission unanimously passed a Resolution supporting Florida Constitutional Amendment 6, which will be considered by voters on the November 4, 2008 general election ballot.
Amendment 6 would change the way marine-related businesses and working waterfronts are taxed. Currently, these businesses are appraised and taxed based upon the potential use of the land, such as high-end condominium or waterfront resort, rather than on the current use of the property.
Amendment 6 would add the following language to the Florida Constitution:
The assessment of the following waterfront properties shall be based upon the current use of the property:
- Land used predominantly for commercial fishing purposes.
- Land that is accessible to the public and used for vessel launches into waters that are navigable.
- Marinas and drystacks that are open to the public.
- Water-dependent marine manufacturing facilities, commercial fishing facilities, and marine vessel construction and repair facilities and their support activities.
Supporters contend that the current tax system is forcing many marine businesses to sell their properties and relocate out of state. Losing marine businesses is detrimental to the state’s economy. The marine industry provides more than 220,000 jobs and contributes more than $18 billion to Florida’s economy. In South Florida, marine commerce accounts for 134,000 jobs; $3.7 billion in gross wages; and $10.8 billion in economic impact.
The City Commission supports Amendment 6 to protect public access to the state’s waterways and preserve marine businesses and working waterfronts, all of which are vital to sustaining and expanding economic growth on a local and statewide basis.
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