TO: Honorable Mayor & Members of the North Port Commission
FROM: Jason Yarborough, ICMA-CM, Interim City Manager
TITLE: Discussion and Possible Action Regarding the Equity Study Report with Recommendations on City's Business Tax Receipts as provided by the Community Economic Development Advisory Board
Recommended Action:
Discussion and possible action regarding the Community Economic Development Advisory Board’s Equity Study Report with Recommendations on City’s Business Tax Receipts (BTR).
Background Information:
A directive from the North Port City Commission, dated July 21, 2020 stated that an Equity Study Commission be established pursuant to the review of the City’s current BTR fee structure with the objective of revising the fee structure with emphasis on fairness and equity. The Community Economic Development Advisory Board (CEDAB) complies with the State ordinance requirement for the formation of an Equity Study Commission with the responsibility of providing recommendations to the City of North Port Commission for revisions to the current Business Tax Receipt fee structure.
CEDAB met in-person on July 29, 2020 and August 3, 2020 to discuss the BTR fee structure and compare best practices of other cities and counties in Florida. They weighed possibilities keeping in mind equity and minimizing loss of revenues to the City. The report they prepared pared down 120 categories to three categories and simplifies the process.
The City Attorney’s Office issued a memo regarding the Business Tax Equity Study which is attached regarding the requirements for an Equity Study. If the Commission decides to change the fee structure, an ordinance will be required to be presented.
Strategic Plan:
Develop and promote City governance that fosters trust and utilizes departmental strengths and innovative philosophies to facilitate effective and efficient provision of all City services
Financial Impact:
CEDAB presumes no significant financial impact.
Procurement
None
Attachments:
1. Business Tax Receipts Equity Study Report
2. Chart of BTRs
3. Commission Directive and Other Information
4. Edited BTR Fee Schedule 2020
5. Equity Study Presentation
6. Memo Regarding Business Tax and Equity Study Commission
Prepared by: Mel Thomas, Economic Development Manager
Department Director: Jason Yarborough, ICMA-CM, Interim City Manager