§ 1-7-78. Findings of fact.

(a)

It is a recognized function of local government to promote economic development within its jurisdiction by providing financial incentives that will encourage new businesses to relocate within its jurisdiction and existing businesses to expand creating employment opportunities that will benefit the entire community.

(b)

The current economic climate has resulted in a high unemployment rate in Charlotte County, impacting the quality of life for the county's citizens and the sustainability of local businesses.

(c)

Subject to voter referendum, the board of county commissioners (the "board") desires to offer economic development ad valorem tax exemptions to new businesses relocating to Charlotte County and to businesses already situated in Charlotte County that are expanding in order to foster economic growth and increased employment.

(d)

In order to ensure that applications for an economic development ad valorem tax exemption are considered in a non-arbitrary and non-discriminatory manner, it is necessary to establish guidelines that further the board's economic development policy to assist the board in making its determinations.

(e)

Applications for an economic development ad valorem tax exemption shall be considered by the board in its legislative capacity on a case-by-case basis, after considering the property appraiser's report and the review criteria.

(f)

No precedent shall be implied or inferred by the granting of an exemption to a new or expanding business.

(g)

On June 22, 2010, the board adopted Resolution No. 2010-051 which called for a referendum to be held on August 24, 2010, to allow voters to determine whether to give the board authority to grant economic development ad valorem tax exemptions to new and existing businesses in Charlotte County.

(Ord. No. 2016-015, §§ 1, 2, 3-8-16)