FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What if a business expects to have 20 jobs in two years, but only 10 jobs after one year?
The business could submit a Reimbursement Application after the first year and would be scored based on having 10 jobs. When they submit after the second year, they would be scored based on 20 jobs. As an alternative, the business could choose to not submit its first application until after all 20 jobs are in place.
What if a business expects to have 20 jobs after two years, but actually hires 30?
The business could request an amendment to their Preliminary Application which would have to be approved by the City and County Commissions.
What if a company builds a spec building with no tenant known for several months after receipt of a Certificate of Occupancy?
The company should submit a Preliminary Application prior to receipt of the first Certificate of Occupancy with the amount of capital investment, and any other known information. The City will hold the Application and set aside for potential reimbursement the development fees that have been paid. Once the tenant is known, the company will complete the Preliminary Application. The company will be given up to two years from the date of the first Certificate of Occupancy to find qualified tenants and provide the requested information.
What if a business hires numerous employees just before filing the Reimbursement Application? Should they be counted?
For reimbursement, scoring is based on full time, permanent positions on the date of the application. If they are temporary positions, they should not be counted. If we are told they are permanent, but the positions are cut shortly after reimbursement has been received, they should be treated as temporary the next year.
What if a business requests confidentiality?
Any written information that is provided to or from a City or County employee, including meeting notes, is subject to Florida's public records laws. A business may request that specific information such as employee Social Security numbers, home addresses, etc., only be provided to the Economic Development Council. This request must be sent to the City Attorney's Office.
What about new businesses with no past history?
Businesses must provide with their application audited financial statements for the previous two years to evidence that they are a strong, growing company in which the City and County should invest. Therefore, the business or a parent company or partner of the business must have been in business for at least two years prior to application.