Public opinion surveys in the mail this week

The public opinion surveys sent out by the Gasparilla Island Bridge Authority are in the mail, and residents are asked to turn them in no later than April 15.

The survey says that in order to raise required funds to pay for the financing of the new bridges, GIBA is considering the levy of an ad valorem tax on property owners located on Gasparilla and Cole Islands. The levy of the tax would have to be approved by a majority of voters.

There are two alternatives to tax options. One is a tax of $.30 mils, or $.30 per $1,000 taxable value, or a tax not to exceed $.55 mils, which is $.55 per $1,000 taxable income.

The tax would be presented at the November 6 election if opinions are favorable. Results of this survey will be tallied prior to the Wednesday, April 25 GIBA meeting.

All island taxpayers are asked to check their mailboxes, fill out and return the survey, and, if possible, attend the April 25 meeting.