Tag Archives: Special Districts

City says no trash pick up unless owners create HOA

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Garbage trash recycling cans bins

By Deborah Goonan, Independent American Communities The purpose of the Urban Service District (USD) was to expand Metro Services,  that were available to residents of Nashville, but not outlying suburban neighborhoods. Those services include trash pick up, curbside recycling, street lights and the addition of liquor stores. In exchange for inclusion into the USD, homeowners would agree to pay higher property taxes for new public services. Two years ago, the representatives of 20 Districts in the Continue ReadingCity says no trash pick up unless owners create HOA→

S. Ponte Vedra Beach areas planning MSTU for massive sand dune replacement project

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By Deborah Goonan, Independent American Communities   Today’s post provides another method of funding major community improvements, this one through the use of an ad valorem taxing unit. Many beach front home and condo owners have been unable to enter their properties since Hurricane Irma, when huge volumes of sand was swept away from beneath their foundations, exposing concrete pilings below. (See photos in article linked below.) A Municipal Services Taxing Unit (MSTU) is proposed Continue ReadingS. Ponte Vedra Beach areas planning MSTU for massive sand dune replacement project→

UPDATE: Braden River conservation purchase to be shared by Manatee County taxpayers

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 By Deborah Goonan, Independent American Communities   A week ago, I shared a post about a conflict involving Braden Woods homeowners, Manatee County, and developer Pat Neal. A 33-acre wooded parcel, surrounded by a mature planned development of homes on one-acre lots, has been the subject of controversy for the past several years. The land was owned by commercial developer Albert Myara, and purchased by Pat Neal and his son in 2016, for $1.6 million. Continue ReadingUPDATE: Braden River conservation purchase to be shared by Manatee County taxpayers→

Braden Woods homeowners, River Club HOA voice opposition to County tax district

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Manatee County sued by River Club HOA By Deborah Goonan, Independent American Communities   Floridian homeowners in the community of Braden Woods are split on their willingness to tax themselves for the next 30 years, to purchase and preserve a 33-acre wooded parcel from Florida developer Pat Neal. Manatee County Commissioners have delayed their vote on whether or not to approve establishment of a Municipal Service Taxing Unit (MSTU). (See FL Statute 125.01 (1)(q)) Braden Continue ReadingBraden Woods homeowners, River Club HOA voice opposition to County tax district→