A few columns back, I discussed the homeowner's insurance debacle that was taking place in our state. I informed you of the drastic premium increases we were going to be seeing in the next few years. Now the information that I'm reading is worse than before.
It seems the bean counters, whether at the state level or at Citizen's Property Insurance, miscounted the losses that Citizen's is suffering. The miscalculation totals an additional 1.4 BILLION DOLLARS. Now the Insurance Department hot shots of this state say the public has to cover this increased amount. How much? About $600 on EVERY insurance policy in the state.
Maybe they should go back to counting beans. After all, there are only about 100 beans in a 12-15 oz. can. That seems to be the top of their mathematical abilities.
On another note, don't expect any real resolution to our real estate debacle either. All reports coming from Tallahassee on this issue are negative for the consumer. From the politicians to the lobbyists, the familiar battle cry is "any tax cuts, rebates or expanded homestead exemptions will impact the local government budgets." My advice - DO NOT SPEND WHAT YOU DO NOT HAVE! If you want to see the future of local government and its finances, look at your local school board. Spend it all now and do not save for the future.
I hope I'm wrong, but I know I'm not.
Ric Cornelius is the Broker/Manager of Sand Key Realty Sales and Rentals, Inc. Sand Key Realty has three offices with 40 agents. One office is at 740 S. Gulfview Blvd., Clearwater Beach, 727-443-0032; the second office is at 2701 Gulf Blvd., Indian Rocks Beach, 727-595-5441; and the third office is at 309 Belleview Blvd., Belleair, 727-461-4200.