On September 21, 2017, based on a unanimous recommendation from its Public Policy Council, the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce’s Executive Committee unanimously voted to not support the City of Tampa’s 2018 budget millage rate increase in its current form due to its impact on businesses. The proposal is part of a $974 million budget that calls for increasing the city’s property tax rate from $5.73 to $6.33 in taxes for every $1,000 in taxable property value.
“After considerable review of the proposed millage increase, we do not agree that there is sufficient justification for the proposed tax increase on residents and businesses,” said Mike Griffin Chair of the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce.
“Business leaders in Tampa make tough budgetary decisions to keep their companies running effectively; we expect that same leadership from our elected officials”, Chamber CEO Bob Rohrlack said. “We recognize the challenges facing the city resulting from previous debts but feel a tax increase to pay for them sets a dangerous precedent.”
Griffin added, “We hope that City Council and Mayor Buckhorn will use their upcoming deliberations to find a solution to our city’s debt challenges that does not raise taxes on residents and businesses and works to maintain our designation as one of the most affordable cities in not only the state but also the country.”
Tampa Bay Chamber 