Agenda Item Name:
Title
Wild Spaces Public Places Presentation and Draft Infrastructure Sales Surtax Ballot Language
End
Presenter:
Lori Weigel - New Bridge Strategies
Charlie Houder - Conservation Lands
Jason Maurer - Parks & Open Space
Description:
Wild Spaces Public Places Project Updates
Recommended Action:
Recommended Action
Hear presentation and provide direction to staff regarding WSPP projects and draft infrastructure sales surtax ballot language
End
Prior Board Motions:
N/A
Fiscal Consideration:
Fiscal Consideration
N/A
End
Strategic Guide:
Environment
Background:
Lori Weigel, New Bridge Strategies, will provide an overview of the recent research conducted in partnership with the Trust for Public Lands (TPL).
Prior Board direction asked staff to evaluate a new local government infrastructure sales surtax pursuant to section 212.055(2), Florida Statutes, which would extend the current Wild Spaces Public Places program and fund several additional new types of projects, including affordable housing, road repair/safety, as well as the contraction/renovation of fires stations and other types of public facilities. Since this type of surtax must undergo a performance audit by OPPAGA and must also be approved by referendum of the electorate at a general election (November 8, 2022), staff is requesting Board direction regarding: the types of WSPP projects that would be funded by a new surtax, whether or not to partner with all nine (9) cities on partnership projects, the draft infrastructure sales surtax ballot language, and the potential expansion of duties for the existing Citizens Oversight Board to include the review of housing and infrastructure expenses.
The attached timeline was prepared by TPL. Staff has not yet verified all of the dates/deadlines set forth in the timeline, but will do so prior to the adoption hearing. The Board is required to hold only one public adoption hearing. Section 125.66(2), Florida Statutes, requires a...
Click here for full text