Tax Rebels Rebuffed

The hallway of the Levy County Courthouse filled with an overflow crowd of tax protestors Election Day. Presiding Chair, Commissioner Nancy Bell apologized to the fifty-plus citizens who did manage to get into the small meeting room, saying that "no court room was available for the November 7 meeting."

Bill Phillips (standing, foreground) and the attendees of the Levy County Commission meeting.

The agenda item for public comment came after twenty-four zoning items, and well after the item regarding reduction of the property tax millage rate. However, six citizens were allowed to make comments immediately after Bill Phillips' vigorous appeal for a rollback of the millage rate to provide tax revenue equal to the 2005-2006 budget.

Overflow of tax rebels in Courthouse hallway.

Phillips, owner of the Cedar Key Bed and Breakfast, said that this year's 26 percent tax increase comes on top of an 18 percent increase last year. He reminded the Commissioners that a strong protest had been made by citizens at two budget and millage rate hearings in September. Renters, homesteader and businesses are all hurt by crushing taxes he said. Phillips concluded his remarks by saying, "Do something in this meeting!"

Dave Bibby, of Williston, spoke to suggest better budgeting by the Commission. Seniors will have to forego retirement to pay tax bills and businesses will fail, especially in Cedar Key, if the millage is not lowered according to Bibby.

Rev. Robert Doran, of Otter Creek, pleaded for help for the "little guy." And from the audience came an interjection that the agricultural tax exemption is being misused by the well-to-do, thus putting the tax burden on others.

Jimmy Statham, a Cedar Key restaurant owner, told the Commissioners that the County needs to live within its means, and stop being financially irresponsible. He said taxes are up but potholes in a County road near his home go unfilled.

Judy Paradisio, who owns Blue Grotto Spring near Williston, told the Commissioners that her tourism business is being bled dry by high taxes. She added that ecotourism is the best source of income for the county.

Commissioner Bell asked County Attorney Anne Brown to explain the legal process for setting the millage rate, and the reasons that nothing can be done before 2007. Bruce Wilson, of Cedar Key responded, saying that a tax refund could be declared later.

Attorney Anne Brown,and Commissioners Danny Stevens, Lilly Rooks and Nancy Bell (l. to r.)

Commissioner Tony Parker responded to the citizens' complaints. He said that he had only received two telephone calls about the tax increase. He promised to meet with the leader of the tax rebels or individuals to search for a solution by working together.

Commissioner Tony Parker responding to complaints with Commissioner Sammy Yearty looking on.