Government officials discuss state politics

Each quarter, Lakewood Ranch Business Alliance members hear progress reports from the government officials who represent them.

Attendees of the Legislative Wrapup and Luncheon June 11, at the Polo Grill and Bar’s Fête Ballroom, heard presentations on positive trends in real estate, the state budget, tourism and insurance markets from District 28 Sen. Nancy Detert, District 71 Rep. Jim Boyd and District 73 Rep. Greg Steube.

“Having these sessions gives members firm access to government officials to voice their concerns as business owners,” Alliance Executive Director Heather Kasten said.

“I was out to breakfast in Sarasota this morning with a friend, and when the owner found out who I was, she said, ‘I pay real estate taxes and a state sales tax, that’s double taxation.’ Florida is the only state that has sales tax on commercial leases. A repeal of that tax for Bealls, for example, would mean $14.3 million savings — that would open two more stores and hire more employees. That issue will be addressed in the next couple of years.”
— District 73 Rep. Greg Steube

“The state has increased funding for higher level education. It’s very important to us and you that we have a world-class education program. Good things are happening in Florida. We also increased jobs statewide 600,000 since December 2010. We’ve also cut taxes while putting money away. We’ve done a lot of good these last four years.”
— District 71 Rep. Jim Boyd

“It’s actually more difficult to have money than to be broke. When you have money in your state budget, everyone has an idea of a project that deserves the money more than someone else’s. Recently, I’ve met important people, like David Beckham. He wants a new soccer stadium in Miami. Instead of that soccer stadium, we need to focus on making Florida an indigenous spot to filmmaking.”
— District 28 Sen. Nancy Detert

Contact Amanda Sebastiano at [email protected]