SUBJECT
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SET HEARING to consider adoption of an ordinance amending Ordinance 22-018, the Economic Development Ad Valorem Tax Exemption for Publix Super Markets, Inc. (IT Headquarters). (Suggested hearing date is May 5, 2026 at 9:00 a.m.).
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DESCRIPTION
On March 15, 2022, the Board adopted Ordinance No. 22-18 establishing an exemption from certain ad valorem taxation for an expanding business, Publix Super Markets, Inc., related to the expansion of its IT headquarters in Polk County. The County and the company also entered into a related Ad Valorem Tax Exemption Performance Agreement on the same date to ensure the company’s fulfillment of its obligations under the Ordinance. The Exemption Period, as defined in both the Ordinance and the Performance Agreement, was to run for ten (10) years, from Tax Year 2025 through Tax Year 2034.
On May 6, 2025, upon the request of Publix Super Markets, Inc., the Board adopted Ordinance 2025-029 to delay the start date of the Exemption Period by one year. As a result, the amended Exemption Period, also reflected in an executed amendment to the Performance Agreement, is currently Tax Year 2026 through 2035.
Due to various delays, Publix Super Markets, Inc., has requested that the Ordinance and Performance Agreement be further amended to delay the start date of the Exemption Period by one (1) additional year, to commence in Tax Year 2027 and run through Tax Year 2036. A public hearing is required to consider adoption of an ordinance further amending Ordinance 22-018 and the related Performance Agreement.
RECOMMENDATION
Set a public hearing on May 5, 2026 at 9:00 A.M. for purposes of considering adoption of an ordinance amending Ordinance 22-018, the Economic Development Ad Valorem Tax Exemption for Publix Super Markets, Inc. (IT Headquarters) and amending the related performance agreement between the parties.
FISCAL IMPACT
None.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Sandra Howard, Deputy County Attorney
863-534-6437