§ 86-33. Findings.

(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 recent and continuing economic climate has detrimentally impacted the quality of life for the county's citizens and the sustainability of local businesses in many ways.

(c)

As approved by voter referendum, the board desires to offer economic development ad valorem tax exemptions to new businesses relocating to Levy County and to businesses already situated in Levy 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 nonarbitrary and nondiscriminatory 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 Levy County property appraiser's report, any staff or consultant reports, 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)

The board adopted Resolution No. 2014-25 calling for a referendum on November 4, 2014, seeking authorization to grant economic development ad valorem tax exemptions to qualifying businesses.

(Ord. No. 2015-01 , § 3, 4-7-2015)