HB 197 Summary

• Allows county collectors in first classification counties with specific population ranges to collect fees for assessment collection under existing special assessment statutes.

• Modifies lien foreclosure procedures for special assessments to permit judicial foreclosure as an option alongside land tax sale proceedings, with ability to recover entire remaining assessment upon foreclosure.

• Establishes the "STAR Bonds Financing Act" authorizing cities and counties to issue special obligation bonds for development projects in eligible areas including historic theaters, major tourism areas, river walk facilities, and major multisport athletic complexes.

• STAR bond projects must meet minimum capital investment thresholds ($50 million) and undergo director approval based on feasibility studies, market studies, and economic impact analyses; bond financing limited to 50% of total project costs with 20-year maximum maturity.

• Requires relocation assistance for displaced persons and businesses, annual audits for projects using state sales tax financing, and restricts eminent domain use to prevent property transfer to private entities before bond project completion; STAR bonds financing act expires June 30, 2018.