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Citrus commissioners reopen debate over local-option sales tax; staff asked to explore a public referendum
Summary
Following a presentation by local bond counsel, commissioners debated a countywide infrastructure surtax as a way to raise predictable capital for roads, drainage, parks and public safety. The board asked staff to return with options for a voter referendum process and potential third‑party outreach support.
Heather (Neighbors, Giblin & Nickerson) briefed commissioners on local option sales surtaxes authorized by Florida law and recommended that the county consider the local government infrastructure surtax as a tool for financing capital needs. Heather explained the surtax options under section 212.055, Florida Statutes, how the surtax base mirrors the state sales tax (with the local levy applied to the first $5,000 of taxable sales), and that Citrus County can levy up to 2% total in local option surtaxes subject to voter approval and statutory caps. Heather said the state revenue estimating body currently projects an annual yield of about $26.4 million for a one‑percent countywide levy.
Commissioners and staff discussed…
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