House and Senate Pass Stimulus Bill

Late yesterday evening, the Senate passed the $787 billion stimulus bill, 60 - 39. Earlier in the day, the House passed the bill, 246 - 183. The bill will be sent to President Barack Obama, who is expected to sign it early in the week.

What's In It For Florida?

Estimated Spending Allocations for FLORIDA:

• Medicaid: $4.3 billion
• State Stabilization Fund: $2.2 billion
• Highway funding: $1.3 billion
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program: $1.1 billion
• Title I Education for the Disadvantaged: $651 million
• Dept. of Education - special education: $627 million
• Transit Formula Funding: $316 million
• Weatherization: $190 million
• State Energy Program: $125 million
• Public Housing Capital Fund: $86 million
• Homelessness Prevention Fund: $65.6 million

Information provided by the Florida Chamber of Commerce.

March is a busy month for local taxes.  This month the FULL AMOUNT of Property Tax is due, Tangible Personal Property Tax Returns are due, and Tourist Development Tax Returns are due.

Property taxes not paid by March 31 begin accruing 3% interest and advertising charges, which are added to the gross amount.

Tangible Personal Property is any tangible item other than real estate used in a business. This includes furniture, fixtures, machinery, equipment, appliances, tools, signs, leasehold improvements, supplies, leased equipment, and any other assets used by the business. Tangible Personal Property Taxes not paid by March 31 begin accruing 1.5% monthly interest and advertising charges, which are added to the gross amount.

Tourist Development Tax is a 5% charge on the revenue from rental accommodations of six months or less.  By promoting tourism in Palm Beach County, the Tourist Development Tax strengthens the economy by creating jobs, enhancing the environment and supporting the cultural arts.  Annual Tourist Tax remittances are due by March 20, 2009.

Tax Collector Reminders for March

March 20 - Annual Tourist Development Tax Returns Due
March 31 - Full amount due on Property Taxes
March 31 - Fourth (4th) Installment Payment Due
March 31 - Tangible Personal Property Tax Returns Due 

Renew vehicle registration by midnight of birthday

John Giba Student Leadership Scholarship

The Chamber Foundation established the John Giba Student Leadership Award in 1999.  The Student Leadership Award program honors seniors who demonstrate leadership qualities, by actively participating in school and community activities. 

Up to five extraordinary local high school seniors are eligible to receive a $1000 scholarship for their leadership and academic achievement.  We would like to recognize the students and their dedication in both academia and work in the community. 

John Giba was a Tequesta business leader for many years who wanted to invest in the future of our young people and we are confident that he would be proud of those who are being honored today. 

Recipients will be announced at the March Business Before Hours. Applications must be received by March 2, 2009.

CLICK HERE for the John Giba Scholarship application.