Property values increase in clay county
GREEN COVE SPRINGS – Clay County Property Appraiser Roger A. Suggs reports that the preliminary taxable value of Clay County property is slightly higher than the estimate reported on June 1.
On June 28, Suggs submitted the Certification of Taxable Value to the Florida Department of Revenue and the Clay County taxing authorities. The 2018 preliminary taxable value is estimated at approximately $10.6 billion, an increase of more than $723 million.
The statutory assessment date for the 2018 assessment roll is January 1, 2018. Therefore, the overall increase in value is a reflection of the upward direction the real estate market has taken during 2017. Although market values have increased, the assessed values of properties with a homestead exemption will be limited, or capped, at a 2.10 percent increase, excluding any additions or improvements, and non-homestead residential and commercial properties will be limited, or capped, at a 10 percent increase due to constitutional amendments passed by voters in 1992 and 2008, respectively. Taxable value is based on the market value minus differentials, or caps, and exemptions.
The taxing authorities have until Aug. 6 to notify the property appraiser of their 2018 proposed maximum millage rates, and the date, time and place of their respective public budget hearings. This information will be used by the property appraiser to prepare the Notice of Proposed Property Tax forms (TRIM notices), which will be mailed to all property owners in mid-August.

Woofstock, an evening of peace and love for animals
DOCTORS INLET – Safe Animal Shelter is gearing up for its 26th annual dinner and auction gala to raise funds for homeless animals in their care.
Using the theme, “Woofstock,” the shelter gala salutes 1960s-era music provided by DJ Tim, dinner from Chili’s and live and silent auctions.
Mark your calendar for Sept. 22 from 5-9 p.m. at the Thrasher-Horne Conference Center. Hippie attire is encouraged. Tickets are $60 per person and are available at Safe Animal Shelter, 2913 County Rd. 220 or call (904) 375-9122 to purchase with a credit card.
Safe Animal Shelter is on track to save more than 1,000 animals during 2018.
Safe Animal Shelter is a nonprofit organization and Clay County's oldest no-kill animal shelter. During their 27 years of service, more than 16,000 homeless animals have been rescued and placed into their forever homes. Their mission is to reduce the number of cats and dogs euthanized in Clay County and surrounding areas. For more information, go to www.safeanimalshelter.com.

Realtor holding 19th Annual Backpack Challenge
JACKSONVILLE – Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty is asking the public to chip in for its 19th Annual Backpack Challenge.
Clay County residents can donate at their location on Fleming Island now through July 31. The office is located at 3535 Highway 17, Suite 10 on Fleming Island.
Last year, partnering with community and local charities, the company donated more than 1,000 backpacks filled with school supplies for local children. This year, the company has set a goal to exceed last year’s contribution and is inviting the community to help.
“Help us prepare children for academic achievement this school year by donating a new backpack filled with pencils, pens, notebooks and more,” said Linda Sherrer, founder, president and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Network Realty. “A new backpack filled with school supplies is a wonderful gift, providing every student with the confidence needed to begin a successful school year.”