Ron DeSantis

The Department of Revenue announced a public meeting concerning Admission and Certifications for Certified Florida Appraiser, Certified Florida Evaluator, and Certified Cadastralist of Florida designations. The agenda included the presentation and discussion of applicant credentials, public comment periods regarding these credentials, and a final vote to recommend the applicant list for certification. Specific qualification requirements for the Certified Florida Appraiser/Evaluator and Certified Cadastralist of Florida designations were detailed.

The meeting focused on the presentation and consideration of applications for Certified Florida Collector and Certified Florida Collector Assistant designations. The committee reviewed the qualifications required for both designations, which include minimum years of experience and a specified number of education hours. Committee members individually affirmed they had no conflicts of interest regarding the applicants. The general subject matter centered on the discussion of applicants' credentials, followed by a vote to recommend the applicant list for certification.

The public meeting focused on receiving comments regarding draft updates to the Florida Real Property Appraisal Guidelines. Key discussion points included the presentation and public discussion of amended sections of the draft guidelines, specifically covering Introduction, Foundational Principals (where extensive discussion occurred regarding the omission of the eighth statutory factor for just valuation and the standard for considering highest and best use), Mass Appraisal Data (including the voluntary nature of providing confidential information), and Mass Appraisal Valuation Data. Attendees provided detailed commentary on statutory interpretations, required procedures for appraisers, and preferred terminology within the guidelines to ensure uniformity and accuracy in property valuation assessments.

The Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners approved Ordinance Number 24-3, extending the expiration date of the county's 0.5% local government infrastructure surtax from November 30, 2026, to December 31, 2041. The total state and local sales and use tax rate for Hillsborough County is 7.5%.

The meeting included a roll call to establish a quorum and a discussion regarding the approval of the February 6, 2025, meeting minutes. The committee reviewed and considered a list of applicants for professional designations, including Certified Florida Appraisers, Certified Florida Evaluators, and Certified Cadastralists of Florida. The qualifications for each designation were outlined, and committee members confirmed they had no conflicts of interest in reviewing the applicants. Ultimately, the committee voted to recommend all applicants for certification.