WCOM NEWS

9-05-04

Miramar's fire fee waived for some

MIRAMAR--Some low-income homeowners and seniors may not have to pay Miramar's new $119 fire fee.

In July, commissioners created an assessment to help pay for the city's fire services, but many residents were concerned it would be a burden on some. In response, commissioners voted 5-0 on Wednesday to create a hardship exemption.

Now, seniors who receive an ad valorem property tax exemption are automatically excused. And homeowners who meet household income guidelines and live at the property also may apply.

The maximum income, per household, is:

One-person, $22,096;

Two-person, $25,145;

Three-person, $28,146;

Four-person, $31,146;

Five-person, $33,546.

At the meeting, Vice Mayor Marjorie Conlan was concerned the guidelines may be too stringent.

"There are people out there that may be outside the limit but have extenuating circumstances," she said. "Based on a case-by-case basis, I think we will be able to make those judgments."

Geri Freedman, the city's director of social services, said the forms must be submitted by Sept. 15. To apply, homeowners must submit a copy of federal income tax form 1040 or 4868 and notarize the application.

"We have been sending out pre-applications pending approval of the commission," she said. "We are going to open up to the community several nights and on the weekend to accommodate residents."

In upcoming years, the forms will be accepted from Jan. 1 through July 31. Homeowners will see the yearly fee on their November tax bill.

City officials estimate 2,500 residents are eligible for the exemptions -- a total of $297,500. Overall, the fee would generate about $5.1 million to help pay for the city's $12.9 million fire service costs.

The forms may be submitted at the Venetian Street Senior Center, 7667 Venetian St., from 5 to 8 p.m. Wednesday through Friday; and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday. They also will be accepted from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday at the Sunset Lakes Community Center, 2801 SW 186th Ave.

(source) Sun Sentinel (Lori Sykes) 9-5-04