The battle is heating up between the Florida Hometown Democracy, Inc Political Action Committee and Citizens for Lower Taxes and a Stronger Economy, Inc. The issue is Amendment 4. You've probably seen the bumperstickers on cars touting the "Vote No on 4" logo.
In case you're new to the drama, Florida Hometown Democracy is behind the effort, after some hiccups along the way to get the initiative on the ballot and the Citizens for Lower Taxes are against the initiative which will be up to Florida voters to decide this November 2nd. Supporters feel the Amendment will support the state economy and those against feel it will devastate the state's economy, real estate prices and negatively affect the rights of property owners.
One thing should be made clear; both efforts, for and against, are spear-headed by very well-heeled Floridians. If anyone is under the delusion, Florida Hometown Democracy is fighting a David vs. Goliath scenario, they would be sorely mistaken. Florida Hometown Democracy is well-funded by multi-millionaires who have personal financial interests in its passage. The same can be said for those against Amendment 4.
The Libertarian Party of Florida came out against this initiative before it was to be put on the ballot. To see the original press release sent out in January, 2008 go here. The principle reason Libertarians are suggesting Floridians vote against Amendment 4 is do to its clear and undisputed erosion of one's property rights. In addition to this main concern is the potential to cost Florida jobs, to raise property taxes on property owners and especially renters, as well as create more lawsuits for property owners and local governments.
Upon an initial reading of Amendment 4 it is easy to be confused and feel an initial support for the effort, however it is something one must give serious thought to its unintended consequences.
Florida Hometown Democracy repeatedly makes the claim how much they love the State of Florida and are upset by what they refer to as over development and that is the principle effort to their legislation - to stop development and reduce growth in Florida.
The Vote No on 4 crowd puts forth the following, "An estimated 267,247 high-wage jobs for Florida residents are at risk directly or indirectly from the potential adverse impacts associated with the passage of Amendment 4…" writes Professor Tony Villamil, Dean of the School of Business at St. Thomas University and lead economist for The Washington Economics Group (WEG), which conducted a comprehensive economic study to the effects of Amendment 4 passage.
According to Hometown Democracy's website, "Voters deserve a table for decisions that directly impact their homes, communities and taxes." This is certainly a noble statement so long as one stops there and fails to continue to give the matter any further thought. The effect of this will create more special interests, not less, delay the time someone can build on their property, will dramatically increase the cost to the property owner to build or improve on their property, will further corrupt the process to change zoning, etc.
Ultimately it is up to the voters to decide on November 2nd which way to go. Hopefully the masses will have fully informed themselves on this important issue by checking out the links I have provided in this article and will make a rational decision and not one based on emotion.
