The Florida Citrus Commission, in its recent deliberation, opted not to adjust the "box" taxes levied on citrus growers as it commenced budget planning for the upcoming fiscal year. According to Shannon Shepp, executive director of the Florida Department of Citrus, which falls under the commission's jurisdiction, the tax rates are anticipated to maintain their current levels at 12 cents a box for processed oranges, 5 cents a box for fresh oranges, and 7 cents a box for grapefruit and specialty fruits.
This decision comes as growers are still contending with the repercussions of Hurricane Ian in 2022 and the longstanding battle against citrus greening disease over the past two decades.
The proposed budget, set for a preliminary vote by the commission in June, outlines $21.394 million in revenue, a decrease from $23.177 million in the ongoing fiscal year, and includes a $202,000 elevation in staff salaries and benefits. Furthermore, the proposed state budget for the 2024-2025 fiscal year envisages a 3 percent salary hike for state employees, pending formal approval and enactment by the Legislature and Gov. Ron DeSantis. The comprehensive spending plan allocates $47 million towards various facets of the citrus industry, with $29 million earmarked for research into citrus greening, the development of technologies for its treatment and prevention, and the execution of field trials. Additionally, $9 million is designated for citrus marketing, a slight reduction from the $10 million allocated in the current fiscal year.
Source: tampafp.com