"Yes" on Amendment 6 Will Preserve Working Waterfronts and Boating Access in FL
Boaters, public and businesses have a stake in issue

Posted Wednesday, October 29, 2008

 
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TALLAHASSEE, FL, October 28, 2008 - In Florida, public access to the waterfront and
water-dependent businesses are being taxed out of existence. That's due to the
state's inequitable tax code that appraises every single waterfront parcel --
marina, boat ramp, commercial fishing operation or any other water-dependent
facility -- at "highest and best use" tax rates, not what the property is actually
used for. On November 4, Sunshine State voters will have a chance to level the
playing field by voting "yes" on Amendment 6, which if passed will allow waterfront
parcels to be assessed on their present use as a marina, launch ramp or other
waterfront business, and help keep the state's waterways accessible to all
Floridians.

"Currently in the state of Florida, a small marina with public access is taxed as
having the same revenue potential as a multi-unit waterfront condominium
development," said BoatU.S. Vice President of Government Affairs Margaret Podlich.
"It's only a matter of time before a marina, fishing operation or other
water-dependent business succumbs to the crushing tax burden. It's simply bad math
that doesn't add up for boaters, water-dependent businesses, or anyone interested in
preserving the state's maritime heritage and dwindling waterfront access," she
added.

Amendment 6 simply states the following marine venues and working waterfronts will
be taxed at the property's current use:

· Marinas and docks open to the public for access and recreational uses
· Public vessel launches into navigable waterways
· Commercial fishing facilities
· Water-dependent marine manufacturing facilities
· Marine vessel construction and repair facilities

"Florida cannot afford to lose any more access, and its marine industry, which
contributes $18 billion to the state's economy and provides 220,000 jobs. Unlike
other businesses, these operations cannot relocate. It's ironic that a state known
for its world-class recreational boating could have such a self-defeating measure in
its tax code," added Podlich.

The amendment was introduced by the Taxation and Budget Reform Commission and is
supported by a large coalition of organizations including the Marine Industries
Association of South Florida, Marine Industries Association of Florida, and Boat
Owners Association of The United States (BoatU.S.).

For more information, go to http://www.SaveOurWaterfronts.com