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Justices Rule Voter OK Not Needed For Redevelopment Bonds

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The Associated Press

Published: September 18, 2008

TALLAHASSEE - The Florida Supreme Court now says that voter approval isn't needed for billions of dollars in roads, buildings and other local public works projects across the state, a ruling that should allow several high-profile projects in Tampa proceed as planned.

The justices today reversed a decision they made last year to require local referendums on redevelopment bond sales backed by property taxes.

After a rehearing, the justices reverted to a legal precedent they set 27 years earlier by not requiring voter approval for tax-increment financing.

Tampa has a number of Community Redevelopment Agencies that use the financing mechanism. Among the projects that could have been affected are Central Park Village, The Heights housing project and the redesign of Curtis Hixon Park.

Tampa City Council Chairman Tom Scott welcomed the Supreme Court ruling, saying it will help Tampa's redevelopment efforts get back on track.

"This is what we've been waiting for," Scott said. "It will speed up many of the projects in our redevelopment areas."

Tribune reporter Christian Wade contributed to this report.

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