The Process of Incorporation
A broad group of residents began working together in late 2019 to discuss the county’s haphazard decisions and lack of investment in our community. We all agreed that having our residents control our own destiny would lead to better
outcomes. Doing nothing risks irreversible damage to our island.
We've Done the Research
Whether or not to incorporate is one of the most important decisions a community can face. With that in mind, we've conducted extensive research into the process and how it would play out on St. George Island:
• We spoke to community leaders, Florida State University, The League of Cities, and other similar communities that successfully incorporated.
• We prepared a detailed legal and financial analysis that meets the requirements for incorporation in the Florida Statutes.
• State legislative and agency staff will review our materials before the incorporation bill can go in front of the Florida legislature.
• Registered voters on SGI have the final say on whether to form a town.
Proposed Timeline
January/February 2022
Incorporation legislation considered
by Florida legislature
May 2022
Citizen referendum on incorporation
November 2022
Election of first town council
December 31, 2022
Town is legally formed
Town Government
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5-person town council elected at large (island-wide)
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Professional, experienced town manager
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Small staff for administration, zoning, permitting,
maintenance, safety, and code enforcement
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Contract with private vendors for large projects like road work
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Law enforcement through Franklin County Sheriff’s Office continues
Budget
The sample budget required for our legislative submission demonstrates that our strong tax base puts us in an excellent position even with a low tax rate of 3 mills (one-third of the rate charged by Apalachicola and Carrabelle). The actual budget will be set by the elected town council.
With the projected revenue, the town could:
• Hire qualified staff to operate the town
• Invest $7 million in capital improvements in the
first five full years
• Build $2 million in reserves after 5 years
**Grants were not considered when creating the budget, but would provide additional financial resources.**