The cost of paradise: How Florida counties compare in taxes and spending

If you live in South Florida, you know it’s expensive. Now, there is proof. South Florida residents pay more than most statewide in property, city and school district taxes, as well as city permits and fees, according to Florida TaxWatch’s recently released 2019 report that does a per-capita comparison of Florida’s counties on taxes, revenue and expenses. More from the South Florida Sun-Sentinel.

Jacksonville Mayor Lenny Curry tells JEA to stop sales talks

Mayor Lenny Curry announced Monday that he’s asking JEA to stop its sales negotiations, saying that the public has “lost faith” in the city-owned utility and that stopping is the “right thing to do.” Prior to his statement, several council members - including allies Terrance Freeman and LeAnna Cumber - demanded JEA abandon the sales talks. More from the Florida Times-Union.

Shopping at St. Petersburg's new amenity will have local flavor

The vendor list for tenants at the St. Pete Pier Marketplace have accomplished one major goal: delivering some cool to the Pier, scheduled to open in spring 2020. Consider Planks, a St. Petersburg-based custom sign company founded four years ago by the husband-and-wife team of Darren and Corrie Crew. It’s a home-based business at the moment, but Darren Crew, born and raised in St. Petersburg, says the firm’s newfound Pier prominence could be a boon for revenues. More from the Business Observer.

Florida gas prices dip for holiday travel

There might be an extra present under the tree as families get ready to hit the road for the holidays with declining gasoline prices across Florida. Attentive drivers may have noticed that prices at the pump have fallen consistently in the past 16 days by an average of 12 cents, according to AAA records. The average price at Florida stations for regular unleaded gasoline is $2.42 per gallon. More from the Orlando Sentinel.

Tampa Facebook content moderator to lay off 556

A total of 556 employees will be laid off early next year from a controversial facility near Carrollwood that monitors Facebook for banned content such as hate speech, bullying, threats and videos of violence against animals and children. More from the Tampa Bay Times.

 

Florida's Most Influential Business Leaders
Arreva produces software that helps non-profit organizations manage events, raise money and manage their donor databases. David Blyer is co-founder and CEO. Read More.