How do state property tax changes affect Sarasota County?
During a special session in June, the Florida Legislature passed legislation that limits revenues that can be raised by local governments and independent districts. Sarasota County Government was required to absorb $17 million in increased costs from FY07 to FY08. The Sarasota County Commission also cut an additional $8 million in taxes, for a total budget reduction of 7 percent.

Taxpayers, however, may not see a 7 percent reduction in their total tax bills because the largest portion of the tax bill, the School Board, is exempt from the state-imposed restrictions.

How do I contact my state representatives?

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What’s the TRIM notice of proposed property taxes?
The Florida Legislature passed the "Truth-in-Millage" (TRIM) act in 1980 to inform property owners about the amount of taxes each government entity plans to levy. This notification, called the TRIM notice, is mailed in August by the Property Appraiser’s office to Sarasota County property owners. This is an informational notice, not a bill.

The TRIM notice lets taxpayers compare the prior year assessed value and taxes with the current year assessed value and proposed taxes. It also lets taxpayers compare the amount of taxes if there’s no budget change for the upcoming year

The TRIM notice lists the date, time and location of public budget hearings in September. At these hearings, the taxing authorities establish the millage for the property on the TRIM notice.

The notice also gives the deadline to file a petition to protest the assessment. The Value Adjustment Board reviews challenges by taxpayers who want to contest the property value used to calculate their taxes.

How do I get more information or contact the Property Appraiser’s office?
Information is available on the Property Appraiser Web site: www.sarasotaproperty.net