Submitted by Suanne Z. Thamm
Reporter – News Analyst
July 7, 2016 8:40 a.m.
The Nassau County Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) approved the financial incentives package for LignoTech at their Regular Meeting on July 6, 2016. All commissioners present voted in favor of the action. Commissioner Steve Kelley (District 2) did not attend the meeting.
The BOCC devoted about 10 minutes to discussing the item, and there was no public input. Commissioner George Spicer (District 4) asked to postpone discussion until Kelley could be present, but received no support from other commissioners.
In response to Spicer’s request, Commissioner Pat Edwards (District 3) said, “We have waited long enough. Waiting sends the wrong message. We need to move forward.” Edwards moved approval of the agreement, and he was seconded by Commissioner Danny Leeper (District 1).
Spicer called for more discussion. “Let’s be cautious,” he said. “What are we doing?”
County administrator Ted Selby clarified that under the terms of the agreement LignoTech would initially be credited for 75 percent of their county ad valorem taxes. This number would drop to 50 percent after five years, provided that all the other terms of the agreement were met. Spicer suggested reversing the percentages. He said, “I think we should get LignoTech, but [the county] also needs money for maintenance. We have to make those tough decisions.”
Edwards emphasized that the LignoTech venture presented the county with an opportunity to broaden its tax base. “The money [accruing to the county] will continue to mount over time.” Leeper agreed said the agreement represented a potential increase of $28M for the county. He said, “It’s all about jobs and money for our schools. It’s a win for Nassau County.”
BOCC Chair Walter “Junior” Boatright said that the recent analysis that the BOCC had requested at Kelley’s urging “speaks volumes” about the need for the county to diversify its tax base. He reported a recent conversation with a Hamilton County commissioner over their efforts to attract industry to lower their ad valorem tax rate, currently over 10 mills.
Spicer stressed that he is not against industry; but he is concerned about the future fiscal shape of the county.
Following discussion, Boatright called for the vote. Spicer joined the other commissioners in supporting the measure.
Editor’s Note: Suanne Z. Thamm is a native of Chautauqua County, NY, who moved to Fernandina Beach from Alexandria,VA, in 1994. As a long time city resident and city watcher, she provides interesting insight into the many issues that impact our city. We are grateful for Suanne’s many contributions to the Fernandina Observer.