The feasibility report projections contemplate current service levels using current revenue sources. Because the utility tax has not been approved for use in unincorporated Escambia County, the Town of Perdido incorporation analysis does not include revenues associated with a Public Service Tax. The current feasibility analysis shows that a balanced budget is possible without the need for Public Service Tax revenue.

The Public Service Tax, also called the “Utility Tax,” is a revenue source for some municipalities. The municipality levies this tax on specific utility services collected by the utility provider, even if the provider is the municipality itself.  The tax is incorporated into the utility bill and is based on relative consumption.

Section 166.231 of the Florida Statutes provides authority to assess a tax based on purchasing electricity, telephone and telegraph, water, and heating fuels (natural gas, propane, fuel oil, and kerosene) at a rate not exceeding 10 percent.