SRIA to discuss tax impact

Chamber President Jeff Elbert is encouraging all interested parties to attend a special meeting of the Santa Rosa Island Authority (SRIA).

The meeting will be Tuesday, Jan. 15 at 3 p.m. in the SRIA board room.

SRIA Board Member John Peacock and executive Director Buck Lee will discuss the possibility of ad valorem taxes, and listen to suggestions for improving business in the off season.

"It is important that as many chamber members as possible attend this meeting," Elbert said.

Recent court decisions seem to be falling in favor of taxing improvements on commercial leases. Escambia County Property Appraiser Chris Jones says the millage rate for county is 16.469 mills. SRIA continues to collect lease fees on commercial properties. Lawsuits concerning taxing residential improvements on Pensacola Beach continue.