Edgewater council unanimously approves opt‑out of Live Local Act tax break for some 'missing middle' units

The Edgewater City Council voted unanimously to approve Resolution 2024‑R‑41, adopting a local opt‑out from a property‑tax exemption authorized under the Florida Live Local Act. Interim City Manager Thurman told the council the state law offers financial incentives, including "up to 75% property tax relief," but that local data in the 2024 Schoenberg Center for Housing Studies annual report indicate a surplus of qualifying "missing middle" units, so the city should decline the exemption.

"We believe it's financially prudent to opt out of this missing middle tax exemption," Thurman said during the staff report explaining the policy and its fiscal implications. The resolution cites Section 196.197830, Florida Statutes, and was read into the record before council discussion and the vote. Councilmember S5 moved to approve Resolution 2024‑R‑41; Councilmember S6 seconded. A roll call produced 'Yes' votes from Mayor Depew, Councilwoman Gillis, Councilwoman Dalbo, Councilman Thomas and Councilman Wilkie, and the motion carried.

The staff presentation summarized the Live Local Act (enacted in 2023) as including tax and sales‑tax incentives, grants and state financing programs intended to encourage affordable housing development. Thurman said the statute allows taxing authorities to opt out where local conditions show a surplus of moderately affordable units rented to households earning roughly 80%–120% of area median income. The council did not amend the resolution; council records show Resolution 2024‑R‑41 is effective as adopted.