Florida property tax reform is needed but many have different ideas on how to fix it. A far better proposal got knocked off of the ballot last fall. The current proposal was put together during the October Special Session of the State legislature.
IT DOES 3 things:
Doubles the homestead exemption from $25,000 to $50,000. The second 25k is applied to the assessed value between 50k and 75k. This won't take anyone off the tax rolls ....A reason to vote YES
It allows portablity of SAVE OUR HOMES savings. (Meaning you can take it with you) ....A reason to vote YES
It caps the rate of increase for non-homestead property.....A reason to vote YES!
VOTE YES ON 1 ON JANUARY 29TH.
There are some telling people if they vote NO it will make the legislature go back and create something better. That is not political reality. The political process is such that the best that can be hoped for is incremental reforms. The big fix that was supposed to be on the ballot was a product of legislative compromise and was so muddled it couldn't pass judicial review.
Don't be fooled into voting no, thinking the next proposal will be better. The may not be a next proposal. Being from PA Dutch country, I say "bird in hand is worth two in the bush"
This past December, long time neighborhood activist, Old Seminole Heights Neighborhood Association (OSHNA)board member, and driving force for historic preservation in our coummunity, Steve Gluckman (AKA Stephen J Gluckman, PhD), passed away suddenly at a neighborhood gathering. Steve founded the book sale 14 years ago to give the librarian of our neighborhood library branch increased discretion in meeting the Library's needs, especially in the area of children and young adults. This year the sale has been renamed by the neighborhood association as a tribute and in recognition of his legacy to the Seminole Heights community.
The success of the sale depends on what is donated and what community members buy.
If you live in the Tampa area, please consider making donations of:
Books (new or used, hardback, paper).
vinyl records, CDs, DVDs, VCR videos, computer programs (software)
quality magazines (if you wouldn't buy it, we probably can't sell it)
children's books, children's learning materials
The sale dates and times are Friday, February 15, 2008 (5:30 pm - 7:00 pm)
and Saturday, February 16, 2008 (9:00 am - 2:00 pm).
To learn more about the Seminole Heights area and why it is such a great neighborhood to call "home", please visit my website: www.atHomeintheHeights.com
Yet another blurb about a Seminole Heights area business. This is one of our newest additions and is more than worthy to draw South Tampans north of Kennedy Blvd.
The Bungalow Bistro on the corner of Florida and Frierson is a pleasant addition to Seminole Heights. It has been a long journey for Elizabeth Graham and her husband. I remember when the buildings that house their two businesses were moved during the Hillsborough Avenue road project more than a decade ago. They have done a spectacular job and both buildings are now a refreshing addition to the Florida Avenue commercial corridor.
The restuarant is beautifully and tastefully decorated. But the food is what will be the biggest influence on Bungalow Bistro's survival. The food and the presentation were both excellent. The prices were reasonable for the quantity and quality. As that word spreads, I can see the time when customers may find themselves waiting for a seat. That will be a far greater compliment than anything I could write in this space.
If you have not had a chance to try out this great neighborhood addition, give yourself a little treat and check it out!
Seminole Heights a great place to call home!
As an older urban neighborhood, Seminole Heights residents and business have struggled to acheive redevelopment of our commercial corridors. Neighbors turn out at city hall for any development that moves the area in the direction that so many want to see happen. That quest to reshape zoning codes to fit our urban reality might within reach as the city of Tampa tests out a new type of zoning model. Labelled, it is form-based code, that relies on neighborhood input for decision making. Starting in 2008, the city of Tampa will hold a series of meetings in Seminole Heights, asking, "What do you want your community to look like," according to Cynthia Miller, director of growth management and development services.
Zoning and codes are the most boring of topics but trying to co-exist with an outdated zoing format can be really discouraging if not down right depressing. Here in Seminole heights we love our neighborhood but you won't find too many who love the commerial environment...even among the business owners who live here.
This new approach could lead to the transformation, if it leads city officials and city council members to see the potential that we know is here. What constitutes "form based zoning" is not easy to grasp so I have included a link for any would be policy wonks wandering my blog. (I should mention this does really bore me but then again one of my graduate degrees is in Public Administration with a concentration policy and planning).
According to the Form Based Codes Institute:
"Form-based codes commonly include the following elements:
Regulating Plan. A plan or map of the regulated area designating the locations where different building form standards apply, based on clear community intentions regarding the physical character of the area being coded.
Building Form Standards. Regulations controlling the configuration, features, and functions of buildings that define and shape the public realm.
Public Space/Street Standards. Specifications for the elements within the public realm (e.g., sidewalks, travel lanes, street trees, street furniture, etc.).
Administration. A clearly defined application and project review process.
Form-based codes also sometimes include:
Architectural Standards. Regulations controlling external architectural materials and quality.
Annotation. Text and illustrations explaining the intentions of specific code provisions."
Other links:
Sacramento Chapter of the American Planning Association article
For more information about historic Seminole Heights area homes, please visit www.atHomeintheHeights.com From your Seminole Heights Neighborhood Specialist
This past weekend our congregational church grounds were transformed into a field of American flags. The flags represent the Americans who have sacrificed their lives in Afganistan and Iraq. There is a flag for each of those who have died. The display came our church grounds from another United Church of Christ (UCC). It will be on our grounds for a month before moving to the grounds of another church before moving to another church in the Tampa Bay area. While displayed, additional flags will be added for any who die while the exhibit is on our grounds. 
The section nearest the sanctuary are for those men and women from Hillsborough County and Florida. Just inside, to the west of the parking lot is a blue board with the names of each individual. Nearly 5,000 flags cover the church grounds. This weekend members of the congregation will be reading the names of each soldier.
To learn a bit more about the Field of Flags project, visit the link below.
First United Church of Tampa, UCC · 7308 E. Fowler Ave. Tampa, FL 33617 · 813-988-4321
Specializing in bungalows & vintage homes in Seminole Heights, Ybor Heights, Tampa Heights, Riverside Heights. Neighborhoods noted for their charm, tree shaded brick streets, riverfront parks & more
Originally from the suburban Philiadelphia area, I came to Tampa in 1983. My undergraduate degree is from West Chester University in Pennsylvania. I have two graduate degrees from the University of South Florida. Prior to going into real 
estate, I spent 20 years in social work doing eveything from case management, supervision, contract management, and as a program director. I currently live in the Seminole Heights neighborhood with my two dogs, Homer (from the Humane Society) and Cicero who I adopted at a neighborhood yard sale over 10 years ago.
My first home was in the Hampton Terrace section of Old Seminole Heights and Seminole Heights has remained my home 15 out of the past 17 years. I have completed renovations of my third bungalow home in Seminole Heights. But there is a character and charm in vintage homes that I can't resist. Some might say that makes me a glutten for punishment but I have come to love the challenge. Each time I say I'm staying put life has a way of introducing change. So will this be the last personal home renovation? Who can say. Even the two years I moved back to Philly, I had to renovate a home while I was living 
there. I think it is an addiction.
Along the way I gained a bit of knowledge and learned a lot of new skills. This has often proven helpful when working with customers since my speciality is historic and vintage homes.
During my years in the Seminole Heights area I have actively worked with many equally dedicated neighbors to bring positive changes to our central Tampa community through volunteering in a number of ways. As a former President of both the the Old Seminole Heights Neighborhood Association (OSHNA) and the South Seminole Heights Civic Association (SSHCA), I have seen tremendous changes made within all of the Heights neighborhoods over the years. I was an early supporter of the Seminole Heights Business Alliance when it formed.
While I am dedicated to providing excellent service to all of my customers. When you start talking about Seminole Heights is when you really see my passion and commitment to community. To search for homes in: Old Seminole Heights , South and Southeast Seminole Heights Or maybe you are like me and are drawn to Vintage homes, well I have a search that will match your budget, however modest or grand. Just visit: Vintage Homes
My first and foremost I strive to provide each of my customers with superior customer service. That applies to both my buyers and sellers. I don't disappear after listing your home but I keep you informed with feedback until your home sells! As a buyer, it is not about getting you into contract and moving on, I am very hands on involved in making sure everything runs smoothly. Whether you are a buyer or seller, the words of my past customers below speaks best to my commitment to my customers.
Tampa has many unique neighborhoods just like any city. My goal is to help you get the home you want in the neighborhood that meets your needs and budget. However, my speciality is bungalows and older homes in Seminole Heights, Ybor Heights, Tampa Heights, Riverside Heights and Ybor City. These neighborhoods are noted for their historic homes, brick streets, riverfront parks and historic districts. Bungalows from the Craftsman era are the most common of the historic homes and can be found each of the Heights neighborhoods. In that sense I am selling
not just a house but neighborhoods and communities to which I am deeply committed.
Historic Districts. Tampa has 6 designated historic districts: Hyde Park, Ybor City, Seminole Heights, Tampa Heights, West Tampa, and Hampton Terrace. I love the charm, character, and craftmanship that can be found in older homes. Some have been neglected and abused but they have stood the test of time. And personally, I don't think they still build them the way my great-grandfather and his generation did. But of course he didn't build in hurricane alley or in termite heaven.
First time buyers. Years ago when trying to buy my first home, the downpayment and closing cost were a hurdle that kept me from buying. I would talk to agents and even some lenders who wouldn't give me the time of day or point me in the right direction. I haven't forgotten those days and so I try to connect my first-time buyers with resources to purchase their first home. Using these programs require a greater investment of time on the part of buyers and mine as their real estate agent; generally take a bit longer to go from contract to closing (one reason many lenders and real estate agents don't get involved with them). However, for buyers who are really wanting to own instead of rent, I have the resources to help you navigate down payment assistance programs.
... we wanted to live in Seminole Heights, but we weren't sure which realtor to use. We chose Rick because of his expertise in this area, and it turned out to be one of the best decisions we made. Rick is incredibly knowledgeable and helpful, and he is an excellent listener as well! After just a few conversations with Rick about our preferences and needs, he found us a number of houses that met all of our criteria. We ended up in a great house that's in a perfect location for us. Rick helped us immensely throughout the entire process, and even though we closed over a year ago, we still go to him for advice about home improvement and recommendations for skilled laborers. He is always ready to offer his expertise, and we consider him an invaluable resource. Jennifer Bosson and Dave Davisson neighbors in Old Seminole Heights
"Thanks Rick for showing us all the properties,... we were really glad the first seller didn't respond on time, it gave us time to find the perfect home with your help. ...my wife was really glad you knew so much about all the different plants in the courtyard. And thanks for being so professional ... I would not of had the patience you did. " Randy and Penny Dean, new homeowners in Carrollwood Village
"...thank you for helping me through this home buying process. I really do love the house and couldn't have made the move without your compassionate help and guidance." Jamie Pilarczyk, first time homebuyer
"Rick was an absolute joy to work with. As a first time home buyer this was an exiting yet unnerving experience for me, so having a reliable and knowledgeable agent was key. It was clear to me that he has strong ties to the Seminole Heights community and genuinely cares for the neighborhood and its residents. Most importantly, I think Rick listened to all of the specifics I was looking for in a home, and found the perfect match for me. I couldn't be happier, or more satisfied. I feel completely confident recommending his services to anyone interested in buying or selling a home." Courtney Ellison, Hampton Terrace resident.
"We wanted to express to you are gratitude for helping us sell our property. We sincerely feel that we could not have done it without you. You went far above what would be considered standard realtor effort to make sure everthing was perfect. Your knowledge of the marketplace, your eye for detail and your integrity are certainly a winning combination. Over the last couple of years we have had many experiences across the country in real estate and by far dealing with you has been the best experience that we could ask for. We can highly recommend to anyone that when they hire you... they are hiring the best! Please have any of your potential clients call us if they need a referral." Tom & Andrea DeFrancisco, Lake Wylie, SC sellers, 912 W. Idlewild
"Although it has been a couple of months since the closing on my new home, I have not forgotten how you helped me fulfill that dream. Four realtors later, and me at the end of my wits, is when I met you. I will admit I was skeptical at first...however, you immediately gained my trust and the rest is history. Your patience and determination prevailed as you kept looking for the perfect home for me and then we found my "Gingerbread House!" With all said and done, your diligence, perseverance and patience was outstanding. I truely believe you were operating in my best interest and for that, I am most grateful." --Linda "Lou" Gomes, first time home owner
We had worked with two other realtors who could not find what we were looking for. Our participation in the city's first-time homebuyer program presented several challenges, but Rick met them all. My dad even told me "I never saw a real estate agent work so hard for his client." We were so pleased with his abilities that we have recommended him twice, once to a friend who he helped into her own first house, and later to my sister when she wanted to sell. They were both as happy as we were with the experience, and we would recommend Rick to anyone." --T.J. Weekes and Chris Schad, first time buyers
"I wanted to thank you for all of the wonderful service you provided me over the last year in my house hunt, and my recent purchase of a home. It took me over a year to purchase a home and I greatly appreciate you're patience, and consistently providing me with prompt and courteous service that whole time. I think most other Realtors would have become fed up with me after showing me house after house and I either wasn't interested in making an offer, or by the time I made up mind and decided I wanted to make an offer, the property was already under contract. In spite of all my hemming and hawing you stuck with me and remained positive and supportive and encouraged me to do what I felt was right, and didn't put any pressure on me to buy something I wasn't sure about. Thanks again for all of your patience, advise, and good service on the purchase of my wonderful home. I've already been recommending you to all of the people I know who are interested in either buying or selling a home." Cole Talty, CPA south Tampa.
"You made selling our house a calm and even fun experience. Your knowledge, support, and customer service led to a quick and profitable sale. While we are both happy with 'quick and profitable,' it is your guidance and honesty we'll remember forever!" - Marky Spies and Ed Van de Wall
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