Century Likely To Raise Business Tax, How Much Undecided

May 25, 2011

The Town of Century is still exploring options that will likely mean a higher tax for businesses — but just how much higher remains to be seen.

Century failed to update their business license regulations and fees as required by the state by 2008, now the town must try to backtrack and fix the error.

In 1971, the responsibility of issuing building licenses in Florida shifted from the state to local governments. Century adopted a business license scheduled in 1981. But following the 2005 to 2006 Florida hurricanes, Florida mandated that the business licenses should no longer be called a “license”, but rather a tax.

Now, the town must either adopt the 1971 state rates and business classes, adopt the rates set by Escambia County, or find a schedule of rates adopted properly by another Florida municipality.

Century’s current business license rate is $25 per year. Escambia County charges $26.25. Some council members, including Ann Brooks, have expressed a desire to see a more graduated cost depending on the business.

“I think the small businesses should pay less than the very largest business,” Brooks said. “Something should dictate why it is higher like size or greater revenue.”

“I pay $400 a year for a license to run just one night a week in Flomaton,” Mayor Freddie McCall, owner of the Flomaton Speedway added.

There are currently 56 companies and individuals that hold a business license in Century.

The council first considered updating the business tax in April and will continue to look at options that might be adopted. It’s not yet know if any changes will be adopted before the beginning of the new tax year on September 1.

Pictured: The Town of Century must revamp its current business license regulations and fees paid by businesses like Food Giant (seen in the aerial photo at top) and Whataburger. NorthEscambia.com file photos, click to enlarge.

Comments

3 Responses to “Century Likely To Raise Business Tax, How Much Undecided”

  1. a harsh judge on May 25th, 2011 9:04 am

    Disbanding the city government is not going to help anything. Do you honestly think that would kieep businesses from paying the tax? Read the article again and you’ll see that they’d still have to pay a county tax. It’s state mandate!

  2. Jack on May 25th, 2011 9:01 am

    If you charge them enough, they will come.

  3. SW on May 25th, 2011 6:15 am

    Okay, it’s time to disband the city council, close the doors, and go home.

Written by William Reynolds · Filed Under News