Local paper does the homework, potentially catches an unqualified Repub. Commissioner

[Baitball Blogger]

Winter Springs commissioner's homestead-exemption claim raises questions

Newly appointed Winter Springs Commissioner S. Avery Smith has claimed a homestead exemption on taxes for five years on a house she owns in Casselberry even though she filed papers with the city stating that she has lived in Winter Springs for nearly six years, records show.

After Seminole County Property Appraiser David Johnson gave Smith a deadline of today to provide an explanation, Smith's attorney sent a letter saying that the commissioner lived in the Casselberry home until 2011.

Under Florida law, a property owner can claim a homestead exemption only for a permanent residence. The exemption can reduce the taxable value of property by up to $50,000 a year. The law doesn't allow multiple homestead exemptions, and violators can be forced to pay back taxes and penalties.

In Smith's case, back taxes, interest and penalties for Smith could total $8,528 for 2007 through 2011.

http://articles.orlandosentinel.com/2012-07-12/news/os-winter-springs-taxes-commissioner-20120712_1_homestead-exemption-winter-springs-new-commissioner

[Baitball Blogger]

1. kicked for the a.m. crowd.