by David Chapman
Staff Writer
Jacksonville Mayor John Peyton visited the Northeast Florida Builders Association recently during the organization’s monthly meeting to address members on his proposed budget. The stop was one of many for Peyton, who said he has great respect for builders.
“I can’t say how much I appreciate all the work you all do,” he said. “Not only in your work but with all you do in the community.”
With property tax reform likely to go through in January of 2008, he said, difficult cuts and adjustments had to be made. The loss of revenue from property taxes meant additional fees that could have an affect on builders, such as stormwater fees, will be implemented to offset costs. While stormwater fees, along with a proposed residential solid waste fee and a Jacksonville Electric Authority franchise fee would make up some revenue lost from scaled back property taxes, the fees affect builders’ main clients: potential homeowners.
Peyton said that even with the fees he does believe that Jacksonville is still a “low cost place to do business” and made an argument that now is not the time to stop for people and businesses to abandon investing in the city.
In terms of the housing market, he said he believes schools also play a big factor.
“Things like schools drive people out and bring people into the housing market,” he said.
Peyton urged the audience to “give your councilman cover” on the budget and praised City Council President and NEFBA’s Executive Director Daniel Davis for his work.
“Times are tough right now,” said Peyton. “But I’m glad that Daniel is my partner and I can’t think of a better man for the job.”