I don't know about you, but I'm sure glad to say good bye - - to 2006! What a year it was! We experienced more havoc than if a hurricane blew past.
Real estate taxes skyrocketed followed by homeowners insurance, if you could get it. The Beach by Design and redevelopment makes Clearwater Beach look like a war zone. Tourism is down and hopefully will pick up again. There are more properties for sale than ever before and hopefully in the year 2007, they will sell. Actually, the market is starting to come to life.
The politicians in Tallahassee have not a clue on how to solve the tax or insurance crisis. One suggestion was soundly criticized by the local politicians because it would gut their budgets. I told you this crap was coming. Six months ago, I predicted this budget mess would take place. Typical government, SPEND IT, DON'T SAVE IT!
Now follow this or stop complaining. The budget process for our local government starts in April. I strongly advise citizens to be deeply involved so the appropriate cuts can be made. Don't cut services, cut waste and palm trees, subsidies and feelings to every Tom, Dick and Harry. Wait isn't that a law firm, that advertises on TV?
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.