Manatee County School Board to revisit impact fees

A controversial decision by the Manatee County School Board might soon be reversed.

After the board in November decided to implement school impact fees for the first time since 2009, one stipulation caught Manatee County Commissioners' attention. The board decided on a schedule of 50%, 75% and 100% — of the maximum recommended fee amount — to charge on new development.

But the board agreed that if the half-cent sales tax, which expires next year, is renewed by voter approval in November, then the impact fee should scale back to 50% of the recommended amount, rather than gradually increase over three years.

Commissioners and community members spoke out against tying the fee and tax together.

At its meeting at 5:45 p.m. April 12, the school board will decide whether to amend its original statement, which means commissioners would have to approve the change at their next meeting.

To view tonight's school board agenda, click here.