From the Desk of Commissioner Fred Hawkins, Jr.

Library Update

Thank you for the opportunity to update you on items that are occurring within your local government. As we begin to prepare for the upcoming budget sessions, I encourage you to express your ideas by contacting me with your input.

The majority of the discussion so far, has surrounded around the libraries. Opinions vary, but I feel an overwhelming majority of the citizens want quality library services with superior customer care. There are many options on the table including privatization of the libraries, raising the millage to the original amount voters approved in the 80's, or keeping the current lower rate and reduce hours of operation and possibly days of operation.

As of Wednesday July 27, the County Commission set the tentative millage rate at the same rate as last year, with the exception of the library millage, which was set at the original voter- approved millage of .5 mills. What this means is that the TRIM notices (proposed property tax notices) you receive in the mail next month will show the highest amount of taxes you may have to pay next year. The County Commission can lower the proposed taxes, but cannot raise the taxes over this amount; so basically, this is your guaranteed, highest tax bill you will be required to pay next year, with a chance of even lower taxes. Additionally, the County Commission can lower this tax amount during the upcoming budget workshops and public hearing that are scheduled this month and in September. While I have not fully evaluated which option I prefer concerning the libraries, I will promise you that if the library millage stays at the higher rate, I will NOT support the budget, as a whole, unless the Commission can find additional cuts to keep the overall aggregate millage the same as last year or lower. I made this statement clear during the July 27 Special meeting. I would appreciate your thoughts on this issue and ask that you please email me at fhaw@osceola.org.

Budget Update

When I ran for office in 2008, my goals were to keep taxes down and to make government smaller. I am proud to let you know that this year's overall county budget is $733 million compared to an almost $1 billion dollar budget when I took office. Like the private sector, we are keeping core services you expect while finding ways to cut and save money. Additionally, County staffing levels have been cut back to the year 2000 levels.

Flood Map Modernization, Veterans, Tribute Museum, Impact Fees

Many of you may soon be receiving notification from the County concerning your property and flood conditions. The County is being proactive in letting you know that every 10 years the Federal Government, through FEMA, studies all states and makes recommended changes to areas they feel may be impacted during times of flooding. I encourage you to attend the different meetings that are advertised in the notification. The County will supply you with survey maps that may help you in proving you are not in a flood zone and challenge the opinion of FEMA. If you do not take interest in the potential impact this can cause to your property and attend these meetings, your homeowners insurance may be affected.

Recently, the Board of County Commissioners directed the County Manager to finalize the purchase of property on West Hwy 192 for the purpose of a Veterans Tribute Museum. While this was a long process, the delays and additional work to look at numerous properties saved a large amount of money. The money that was spent for this purchase was done so with Tourist Tax dollars and NOT General Fund dollars. State Statutes are specific as to how Tourist Tax funds can be used. While it would be nice to put this money towards many of the shortfalls in the overall budget... it is just not allowed.

As some of you may know, the County Commission waived Commercial Impact fees some time ago. As we compare ourselves to other counties around the state, we find that we have been one of the most successful in triggering business to start new construction. Some of the applications involve companies such as Florida Hospital, Harmony Development, Champions Gate, Wawa Convenience stores, Publix Super markets, and Mobil One Service Stations. Additionally, we have many manufacturing, research and development companies looking to locate a business or relocate to Osceola County. Much of the interest can be contributed to you, because of the taxpayers' passage of tax abatement in last November's election, and the Commission approving designated property for the proposed land use where businesses can locate.

Stay Connected

I am asked many times when do I think the economy may turn around. My response is always the same; If every day we attempt to make a positive contribution to our community that will go a long way to making this a better place. Whether mentoring a child, volunteering, or just emailing your elected officials with suggestions or a different view can and will make a difference. Many factors enter into reversing the current economy, and each of us in our own small way will help this change occur. It's easy to be on the sidelines, criticize, and point fingers about what is wrong…this accomplishes nothing. 

America was not built on naysayers, but by individuals and groups who were willing to work hard, be involved, and make a difference. This is your home... attend community meetings, contribute your ideas, and be a part of how this community can be the best place to work, live and play.

Please, I ask that you contact me anytime you have a question, concern, or suggestion. My priority as your commissioner is to represent you and your best interest. This can only be accomplished when we are in touch and connected.

God Bless each of you,

Fred Hawkins, Jr.
County Commissioner, District 5
fhaw@osceola.org
(407) 709-1078