The feasibility study analysis is based on current service levels for current dollars. The report looks at all existing tax revenues that would return to the town’s control and then contemplates impacts based on current services. It demonstrates that, with current service levels, a balanced general fund budget is attainable using only existing revenue sources. This includes the required development services necessary within the first years to produce a 20-year comprehensive plan. If citizens desire increased service levels or new services that they do not presently receive, those would carry increased costs.
Contemplating Perdido’s current service levels for current dollars, the feasibility report has this to say regarding impacts on residents:
The initial impacts on residents of Perdido would be very limited. There would be no new ad valorem taxes.
August 2023 Feasibility Report, p. 56
It also concludes minimal impacts on Perdido businesses:
Some businesses would be charged an additional annual Business Tax Receipt (BRT) or town license annually (Escambia County BRT is currently $26.25 per business annually). These would be businesses who operate in both Perdido and Escambia County.
August 2023 Feasibility Report, p. 56
For businesses that only operate within the proposed Town of Perdido, a single BRT would be paid to the town instead of the county. The budget assumes the BRT rate would be the same as it presently (e.g., $26.25 per business annually).
Based on 2022-23FY tax revenue analysis, the report identifies that several forms of existing tax revenue would return to the community. One source in particular would bring funds for capital maintenance and new projects:
The new local government of Perdido would gain total control of about $6 million annually to do capital maintenance and new projects.
August 2023 Feasibility Report, p. 56
The use of the $6M in funds referenced here is limited by state statute to capital maintenance and new projects.
