HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024 11 18 Regular 501 - Resolution 2024-35 and Interlocal Agreement: FRED C-PACE Program in Winter SpringsREGULAR AGENDA ITEM 501
CITY COMMISSION AGENDA | NOVEMBER 18, 2024 REGULAR MEETING
TITLE
Approval of Resolution 2024-35 and Interlocal Agreement; Authorizing The Florida
Resiliency and Energy District (FRED) Commercial Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE)
Program in the City of Winter Springs
SUMMARY
On August 14, 2023, the City Commission approved a Development Agreement and
Site Acceptance plans proposed by MTH Development for a 140-unit Independent
Living Facility (ILF). Sitework is currently underway in preparation for vertical
construction. MTH Development and Program Administrator, Florida Development
Finance Corp.(FDFC), approached City staff regarding the use of the C-PACE Program
as a financing tool for the Living Life ILF development.
The Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE) program helps business
owners remove high upfront costs and provide low-interest financing to help
modernize, mitigate potential wind damage, and improve the energy and water
efficiency of their property.
The program uses an approved third-party administrator, in this case FDFC, that
provides funding through a special assessment done on the project property. As a
result, the loan stays with the property and allows the assessment to transfer when
the building is sold.
Payments for the assessment are made through annual property taxes. This
assessment can be amortized over a period of 5-20 years to allow for cost-saving
results from the improvements to be used to pay back the amount owed.
C-PACE financing can be used to add or upgrade any of the following:
138
Lighting
Heating or cooling systems
Insulation, motors or water pumps
Solar panels
Storm/hurricane hardening
Wind hazard mitigation
Water efficiency such as low-flow and other water-efficiency devices
The program administrator will help the developer determine qualifying energy
improvements for the project. They will also arrange 100% financing that can be
repaid for up to 20 years with an assessment added to the property tax bill that will
offset assessment payments each year.
A program administrator may only offer a program for financing to commercial
property within the jurisdiction of a municipality where the municipality has
authorized by ordinance or resolution the financing program. The City must also
establish a process, or approve a process established by a program administrator, to
register contractors for participation in a program authorized by the City.
FUNDING SOURCE
N/A
RECOMMENDATION
The recommendation is that the City Commission Authorize the Mayor to execute
Resolution 2024-35 and Interlocal Agreement with The Florida Resiliency and Energy
District (FRED) which will allow eligible projects, approved by the Winter Springs City
Commission, to participate in the Commercial Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE)
Program.
139
Presented by Robert Harvey WWW.FDFCBONDS.COM140
Introduction
Florida Development Finance Corporation
Florida Statutes Section 288, Part X
Support Economic Development
Provide Access to Capital
141
Private Activity Bonds
Benefits nongovernmental persons, such as private businesses,
charitable organizations or individuals
Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (C-PACE)
Benefits commercial property owners in eligible areas
Capital Options
142
Private Capital
Insurance Funds, Family Funds and Institutional Lenders
Qualified Improvements
Waste System, Resiliency, Energy Conservation, Renewable
Energy and Water Conservation
Tax Bill Repayment
Voluntary Assessment
Non-Ad Valorem
C-PACE OVERVIEW
143
Program Administrator
Florida Development Finance Corporation (FDFC)
PACE District
Florida Resiliency and Energy District (FRED)
Tax Collector and Property Appraiser
Private Capital Provider
FDFC Program Structure
144
Improv.
InstalledClosingDue
DiligenceFDFC/FRED Capital
Provider
Commercial
Project
Financing Process
145
DistributionAssessment
PaymentTax BillFDFC DataRecorded
Lien
FRED
Resolution
Levy and Collection Process
146
HISTORY OF PACE
2008
State Legislature
Compelling State
Interest
2010
PACE Act
FS 163.08
2012
PACE Districts
Statute Amended
Initial Districts
Created
2013
Assessments
Initial Assessments
Levied
$369M+ Invested in
Florida PACE Projects
2024
PACE Act Amend.
Separate R-PACE &
C-PACE Regulations
New Requirements
Added Improvements
147
FDFC C-PACE PROGRAM HISTORY
2014 - 2015
Program Development
•Established PACE Program
•Bond Validation
•Circuit Court issued a Final
Judgement
•Florida Supreme Court
affirmed the Final
Judgement
2017
Special District
•Established FRED
2018
Assessments
•Bank of New York Mellon
•Initial Assessments Levied
2020
Program Transition
•Commercial PACE
•Closed Projects: 43
•Project Amt: $287M+
148
FDFC
Program
Footprint
149
FUNDED PROJECTS
$7.5M to complete
a purchase and
rehab of an
existing building
for a human milk-
based nutrition
company in the
City of Port St.
Lucie.
$2.7M for new
construction
cancer prevention
clinic and a future
cancer research
laboratory and
small-scale cancer
drug
manufacturing
facility in St. John’s
County.
$28M for
recapitalization of
the Arlo Wynwood
Hotel in Miami’s
Downtown Art’s
District.
$18M for a retrofit
of a global,
diversified protein
company in the
City of Live Oak.
$9.7M for the
recapitalization of
a new wave of
water park located
in Osceola County.
150
Property
Owner
Benefits
100% Financing
Transferable
Off-Balance Sheet
Not subject to Acceleration
Delayed Payments
Decreases Operating Costs
151
Project Financing Example
152
Local Government BenefitsNo Cost Turn-Key Program
Improves Existing Building Stock
Increases Property Tax Revenue
Stimulates Local Job Creation
Promotes Economic Development
Decrease Energy and Water Consumption
153
Florida Statute 163.02
Authorize by Ordinance or Resolution
Interlocal Agreement
Authorization Requirement
154
THANK YOU!
Ryan Bartkus
Senior Director
Phone: 407-276-4223
rbartkus@fdfcbonds.com
155
This instrument was prepared by or under the supervision of (and after recording should be returned to):
Ryan Bartkus
Florida Resiliency and Energy District
c/o Florida Development Finance Corporation
156 Tuskawilla Road, Suite 2340
Winter Springs, Florida 32708
(SPACE reserved for Clerk of Court)
LIMITED PURPOSE PARTY MEMBERSHIP AGREEMENT BETWEEN THE
FLORIDA RESILIENCY AND ENERGY DISTRICT AND
CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS
This Limited Purpose Party Membership Agreement (the “Agreement”) is entered
into this ___ day of ___________________, 2024 by and between the FLORIDA
RESILIENCY AND ENERGY DISTRICT (“FRED”), a public body corporate and
politic created as a separate legal entity pursuant to Section 163.01(7), Florida Statutes,
and the City of Winter Springs (“CITY”) (collectively, the “Parties”) for the purpose of
providing a Commercial Property Assessed Clean Energy (“CPACE”) program within the
legal boundaries of the City of Winter Springs.
WI TN ES SE TH
WHEREAS, pursuant to the Florida PACE Act, codified in Section 163.08 through
Section 163.087, Florida Statutes (the “PACE Act”), property owners may voluntarily
finance improvements related to waste systems, resiliency, energy efficiency and
conservation, renewable energy and water conservation efficiency improvements
(“Qualifying Improvements”) with the assistance of local governments, through the
execution of financing agreements and the related imposition of voluntary, non-ad valorem
special assessments; and
WHEREAS, an Interlocal Agreement, dated September 6, 2016, as amended and
supplemented from time to time (the “Interlocal Agreement”) was initially entered into
between the Town of Lake Clarke Shores and the City of Fernandina Beach (each a
“Founding Member”) and subsequent parties thereto (the “Public Agencies”) and, in the
limited capacity described therein, the Florida Development Finance Corporation (“FDFC”
and together with the Public Agencies, the “Parties”), for the purpose of facilitating the
financing of Qualifying Improvements for properties located within FRED's aggregate legal
boundaries via the levy and collection of voluntary non-ad valorem special assessments on
improved property; and
WHEREAS, the City of Winter Springs finds that the financing of Qualifying
Improvements through the FRED CPACE Program provides a special benefit to
participating real property within its legal boundaries; and
156
WHEREAS, the Parties to this Agreement desire to supplement the Interlocal
Agreement to include the City of Winter Springs as a Limited Member, as such term is
defined in the Interlocal Agreement, on the date last signed below.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the above recitals, terms and conditions,
promises and covenants hereinafter set forth, the Parties agree as follows:
SECTION 1. DEFINITIONS. Any capitalized terms used in this
Agreement, but not otherwise defined herein, shall have the meaning specified for such
term in the Interlocal Agreement.
SECTION 2. PURPOSE. The purpose of this Agreement is to facilitate the
financing of Qualifying Improvements to commercial properties through a CPACE
program, in accordance with the PACE Act and provide an efficient process for real
property owners within the legal boundaries of the City of Winter Springs to access the
CPACE program and authorize FRED to administer the CPACE program within such legal
boundaries.
SECTION 3. RIGHTS OF PARTIES. FRED, together with its member
Parties and the City of Winter Springs, with the intent to be bound thereto, hereby agree
that the City of Winter Springs shall become a Party to the Interlocal Agreement together
with only those rights and obligations of Parties to the Interlocal Agreement as are
necessary to fulfill the purposes described in this Agreement, including access to
financing and processing of non-ad valorem special assessments by FRED, within the
legal boundaries of the City of Winter Springs, as more specifically described below,
and in accordance with federal, state, and local laws, rules, regulations, ordinances, and
all operational program standards of the City of Winter Springs. In the event of any
conflict between the Interlocal Agreement and this Agreement, this Agreement shall
control the rights and obligations of the Parties.
SECTION 4. INCORPORATION OF RECITALS AND LEVY OF
SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS. The Parties hereby acknowledge and agree with each recital
to this Agreement and incorporate such findings herein as their own. The non-ad valorem
special assessments arising from a property owner's voluntary participation in the CPACE
program shall be levied by FRED on properties within the legal boundaries of the City of
Winter Springs and the receipt and distribution of any non-ad valorem special assessments
imposed by FRED are purely ministerial acts.
FRED shall be solely responsible for all matters associated with origination,
funding, financing, collection and administration of each of the FRED’s authorized non-ad
valorem assessments. FRED’s responsibilities include: (1) FRED defending,
indemnifying and holding harmless the City and its officers, attorneys and employees as
157
provided in the Interlocal Agreement and this Agreement; (2) FRED responding to any
complaints or inquiries by participants, tax certificate holders, lenders or others relating to
the Program’s special assessments, the FDFC Pace Program’s financing agreements, the
Program’s qualifying improvements, or any other aspect of the FDFC Pace Program; (3)
FRED ensuring and being responsible for compliance with all laws, rules, and regulations
in the imposition and collection of any special assessments levied upon property owned by
participating property owners who have entered into a financing agreement.
SECTION 5. QUALIFYING IMPROVEMENTS. FRED may provide
access to financing for Qualifying Improvements to real property within the legal
boundaries of the City of Winter Springs, in accordance with the PACE Act and the terms
of the Interlocal Agreement.
SECTION 6. FINANCING AGREEMENT. Before extending any
financing or subjecting any participating real property within the legal boundaries of the
City of Winter Springs to the non-ad valorem special assessment authorized therein, FRED
and FDFC, through their designees, shall, on a non-exclusive basis pursuant to the PACE
Act and this Agreement, enter into a financing agreement (the “Financing Agreement”)
with property owner(s) within the legal boundaries of the City of Winter Springs who
qualify for financing through FRED. The Financing Agreement shall include a thorough
explanation of the PACE financing process and specify at what point in the process the
special assessment will be added to the real property's owner's property tax bills and shall
contain any other terms and conditions as may be required by the PACE Act. The Parties
hereto acknowledge and agree that the City of Winter Springs shall have no obligations
under any such Financing Agreements.
SECTION 7. BOUNDARIES OF THE PACE PROGRAM. For the
limited purposes of administering the CPACE program and imposing non-ad valorem
special assessments as described in this Agreement, the legal boundaries of FRED shall
include the legal boundaries of the City of Winter Springs, which legal boundaries may be
limited, expanded to reflect annexation, or more specifically designated from time to time
by the City of Winter Springs by providing written notice to FRED. Upon execution of
this Agreement and written request thereafter, the City of Winter Springs agrees to provide
FRED the current legal description of the legal boundaries (if available) of the City of
Winter Springs.
SECTION 8. ELIGIBLE PROPERTIES. Within the legal boundaries of
the City of Winter Springs, commercial real property may be eligible for participation in
the CPACE program within the limits otherwise prescribed in the PACE Act.
SECTION 9. SURVIVAL OF SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS. During the
term of this Agreement, FRED may levy voluntary non-ad valorem special assessments on
participating properties within the legal boundaries of City of Winter Springs to help secure
158
the financing of costs of Qualifying Improvements constructed or acquired on such
properties based on the finding of special benefit by the City of Winter Springs. Those
properties receiving financing for Qualifying Improvements shall be assessed by FRED until
such time as the financing for such Qualified Improvement is repaid in full, in accordance
with the PACE Act and other applicable law. Notwithstanding termination of this Agreement
or notice of a change in the legal boundaries of the City of Winter Springs as provided for
herein, those properties that have received financing for Qualifying Improvements shall
continue to be a part of FRED, until such time that all outstanding debt has been satisfied.
SECTION 10. TERM. This Agreement shall remain in full force and effect
from the date of its execution by both Parties. Any Party may terminate this Agreement for
convenience upon thirty (30) days' prior written notice (“Termination Notice”) in
accordance with the terms of the Interlocal Agreement. Beginning on the date FRED
receives a Termination Notice from the City of Winter Springs (“Termination Date”),
FRED shall not approve any new applications affecting property within the legal
boundaries of the City of Winter Springs referenced in the Termination Notice.
Notwithstanding termination of this Agreement, however, property owners whose
applications were received prior to the Termination Date, and who received funding
through the CPACE program, shall continue to be a part of FRED, for the sole purpose of
FRED imposing assessments for the repayment of such property's outstanding debt, until
such time that all outstanding debt has been satisfied.
SECTION 11. CONSENT. This Agreement, together with Resolution
2024-35 by the governing board of the City of Winter Springs approving this Agreement,
shall be considered the Parties' continued consent to authorize FRED to administer the
CPACE program within the legal boundaries of the City of Winter Springs, required by
the PACE Act.
SECTION 12. COORDINATOR. The City of Winter Springs City
Manager's Office within the City of Winter Springs shall serve as the City’s primary point
of contact and coordinator. The City of Winter Springs will advise FRED of any changes
to the City’s own primary contact and coordinator within 30 days of such changes.
SECTION 13. LIMITED OBLIGATIONS. Neither FRED nor FDFC is
authorized to issue bonds, or any other form of debt, on behalf of the City of Winter Springs
without a separate interlocal agreement or other authority provided by State law. To the
extent that FRED or FDFC issues CPACE-related bonds under its own authority in
connection with this Agreement, the security for such bonds may be secured by non-ad
valorem special assessments imposed by FRED on participating properties within the legal
boundaries of the City of Winter Springs. The issuance of such bonds shall not directly or
indirectly or contingently obligate the City of Winter Springs to levy or to pledge any form
of taxation whatever, or to levy ad valorem taxes on any property within their territorial
limits to pay the bonds, and the bonds shall not constitute a lien upon any property owned
by the City of Winter Springs. For any such bonds, the bond disclosure document, if any,
159
shall include references to the fact that the City of Winter Springs is not an obligated party,
and also adequately disclose material attendant risks with CPACE programs.
SECTION 14. LIABILITY, INDEMNIFICATION AND SOVEREIGN
IMMUNITY.
(A) The City of Winter Springs and FRED are and shall be subject to Sections
768.28 and 163.01(9)(c), Florida Statutes, and any other provisions of Florida law governing
sovereign immunity. Pursuant to Section 163.01(5)(0), Florida Statutes, and this covenant of
the parties hereto, the local governments who are either or both the founders or members of
FRED shall not be held jointly liable for the torts of the officers or employees of the FRED,
or any other tort attributable to FRED, and that FRED alone shall be liable for any torts
attributable to it or for torts of its officers, employees or agents, and then only to the extent of
the waiver of sovereign immunity or limitation of liability as specified in Section 768.28,
Florida Statutes. The City of Winter Springs and FRED acknowledge and agree that, to the
extent allowed by law, FRED shall have all of the applicable privileges and immunities from
liability and exemptions from laws, ordinances, rules and common law which apply to the
municipalities and counties of the State. The City of Winter Springs is completely
independent of FRED. To the extent provided by law, FRED shall defend, indemnify and
hold harmless the City, its officers, employees, attorneys, and agents, from and against any
and all demands, claims, losses, suits, liabilities, causes of action, judgment or damages,
arising out of, related to, or in any way connected with FRED’s, and/or any of FRED’s
designees or agents, performance or non-performance of any provision of this Agreement or
the CPACE Program arising from contracts between FRED and/or any of FRED’s designees
and agents and any third parties made pursuant to this Agreement. In addition, the foregoing
obligation shall expressly include all demands, claims, losses, suits, liabilities, causes of
action, judgment or damages, arising out of or based on a challenge to whether the voluntary
non-ad valorem assessment constitute a lien of equal dignity to taxes, or greater priority than
other recorded instruments, as authorized by the PACE enabling act under Florida law. Also,
FRED agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the City from and against collection risk related
to the bonds issued for CPACE assessments within the City. Further, the Parties understand
that the City and its employees, officers and attorneys shall also receive the full benefit of any
indemnification of the members under the Interlocal Agreement, and that such provisions
shall fully apply to the City as if specifically set forth herein. Nothing in this Agreement is
intended to inure to the benefit of any third-party for the purpose of allowing any claim, which
would otherwise be barred under the doctrine of sovereign immunity or by operation of law.
(B) Neither the City of Winter Springs, nor the local governments who are either
or both the founders or members of the Agency, nor any subsequently joining or
participating local government as members of FRED shall in any manner be obligated to
pay any debts, obligations or liabilities arising as a result of any actions of FRED, the
governing board of FRED or any other agents, employees, officers or officials of FRED,
160
except to the extent otherwise mutually and expressly agreed upon, and neither FRED, the
governing board of FRED or any other agents, employees, officers or officials of FRED
have any authority or power to otherwise obligate either the City of Winter Springs, the
local governments who are either or both the founders or members of FRED, nor any
subsequently subscribing or participating local government in the business of FRED in any
manner.
(C) All of the privileges and immunities from liability and exemptions from laws,
ordinances and rules which apply to the activity of officials, officers, agents or employees of
the parties shall apply to the officials, officers, agents or employees thereof when performing
their respective functions and duties under the provisions of this Agreement.
SECTION 15. AGREEMENTS WITH TAX COLLECTOR AND
PROPERTY APPRAISER. This Agreement shall be subject to the express condition
precedent that FRED enter into separate agreement(s) with the tax collector and the
property appraiser (if requested) having jurisdiction over the legal boundaries of the City
of Winter Springs, which shall provide for the collection of any non-ad valorem special
assessments imposed by FRED within the legal boundaries of the City of Winter Springs.
If required by the tax collector and property appraiser, the City agrees to enter into those
agreements as a third-party to facilitate the collection of the non-ad valorem special
assessments imposed by FRED. FRED shall be solely responsible for professionally
coordinating all interface with the tax collector and property appraiser. FRED shall take
all action necessary for the lawful levy of the special assessments against all lands and
properties specifically benefitted by the acquisition, construction and financing of
qualifying improvements. The City shall not incur or ever be requested to authorize or take
steps to authorize any obligations secured by special assessments associated with
qualifying improvements imposed by FRED.
SECTION 16. AGENTS OF FRED. FRED shall ensure that its agents,
administrators, subcontractors, successors and assigns are, at all times, in compliance with
the terms of this Agreement and applicable City, state and federal laws.
SECTION 17. NOTICES. Any notices to be given hereunder shall be in
writing and shall be deemed to have been given if sent by hand delivery, recognized
overnight courier (such as Federal Express), or by written certified U.S. mail, with return
receipt requested, or by electronic mail, addressed to the Party for whom it is intended, at
the place specified. For the present, the Parties designate the following as the respective
places for notice purposes:
161
If to FRED:
The Florida Resiliency and Energy District
c/o Florida Development Finance Corporation
156 Tuskawilla Road, Suite 2340
Winter Springs, FL 32708
info@fdfcbonds.com
and Issuer's Counsel with Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP
Joseph Stanton, Esq.
Nelson Mullins Riley & Scarborough LLP
390 North Orange Avenue, Suite 1400
Orlando, FL 32801-4961
407.839.4200 (t)
jstanton@nelsonmullins.com
If to City of Winter Springs:
City of Winter Springs
Attn: City Manager
1126 E State Road 434
Winter Springs, FL 32708
With a Copy to:
Anthony A. Garganese, Esq.
Garganese, Weiss, D’Agresta & Salzman, P.A.
111 N Orange Avenue, Suite 2000
Orlando, FL 32801
SECTION 18. AMENDMENTS. No modification, amendment or alteration
in the terms or conditions contained herein shall be effective unless contained in a written
document prepared with the same or similar formality as this agreement and executed by
the City of Winter Springs and FRED or other delegated authority authorized to execute
same on their behalf.
SECTION 19. JOINT EFFORT. The preparation of this Agreement has been
a joint effort of the Parties hereto and the resulting document shall not, solely as a matter
of judicial construction, be construed more severely against one of the Parties than the
other.
162
SECTION 20. ASSIGNMENT. The respective obligations of the Parties set
forth in this Agreement shall not be assigned, in whole or in part, without the written
consent of the other Party hereto.
SECTION 21. THIRD PARTY BENEFICIARIES. None of the Parties
intend to directly or substantially benefit a third party by this Agreement. Therefore, the
Parties acknowledge that there are no third-party beneficiaries to this Agreement and that
no third party shall be entitled to assert a right or claim against either of them based upon
this Agreement; provided, however, that counsel to the Parties may rely on this Agreement
for purposes of providing any legal opinions required by the issuance of debt to finance
the Qualifying Improvements.
SECTION 22. RECORDS. The Parties shall each maintain their own
respective records and documents associated with this Agreement in accordance with the
requirements for records retention set forth in Chapter 119, Florida Statutes.
SECTION 23. RECORDING. This Limited Purpose Party Membership
Agreement shall be filed by FRED with the Clerk of the Circuit Court in the Public Records
of Seminole County and recorded in the public records of Seminole County, as an amendment
to the lnterlocal Agreement, in accordance with Section 163.01(11), Florida Statutes.
SECTION 24. SEVERABILITY. In the event a portion of this Agreement
is found to be unenforceable by a court of competent jurisdiction, that part shall be deemed
severed from this Agreement and the remaining provisions of this Agreement shall remain
in full force and effect.
SECTION 25. EFFECTIVE DATE. This Agreement shall become effective
upon the execution by both Parties hereto and recordation in accordance with Section 23
herein..
SECTION 26. LAW, JURISDICTION, AND VENUE. This Agreement shall be
interpreted and construed in accordance with and governed by the laws of the state of Florida. The Parties agree
that the exclusive venue for any lawsuit arising from, related to, or in connection with this Agreement shall be
in the state courts of the Eighteenth Judicial Circuit in and for Seminole County, Florida, the United States
District Court for the Middle District of Florida, Orlando Division, or United States Bankruptcy Court for the
Middle District of Florida, as appropriate.
SECTION 27. SOVEREIGN IMMUNITY. No provision of this
Agreement, the Interlocal Agreement, or any other legal instrument between the Parties to
implement the FDFC PACE Program, shall be construed or deemed a waiver or avoidance
of any common law or statutory right to sovereign immunity or of any other defenses,
privileges and immunities enjoyed by the City or FRED and their respective elected and
appointed officers, employees and agents under any applicable law. Nothing in this
163
Agreement is intended to inure to the benefit of any third party for the purpose of allowing
any claim which would otherwise be barred under the doctrine of sovereign immunity or
by operation of law. This Paragraph shall survive termination.
SECTION 28. COVENANT NOT TO IMPOSE ANY FINANCIAL
OBLIGATIONS ON THE CITY. FRED covenants and agrees for itself and its
members (voting and nonvoting), directors, officers, employees, contractors, and agents
that FRED shall not have any right or power to impose or otherwise monetarily obligate
the City to pay any assessment, charge, fee, penalty, dues, or any other compensation or
funds arising out of or in any way concerning the City’s participation in the membership,
the Interlocal Agreement and this Agreement. Not under any circumstances whatsoever
shall the City be liable for or obligated to pay, secure or perform any debts, liabilities,
conditions or obligations arising out of any financing agreement or instrument, special
assessment, lien, mortgage agreed to by any property owner or its representative under the
FDFC PACE Program. Furthermore, the City shall not be responsible or obligated for
paying any debts, obligations or liabilities arising out of or resulting from any acts or
omissions of FRED or its members, directors, officers, employees, contractors and agents.
SECTION 29. REPORTING TO THE CITY. On an annual basis, or upon
request of the City in writing, FRED shall provide the City with a written report reporting on the
implementation of the FDFC PACE Program within the jurisdictional limits of the City. The report
will include a summary of the properties serviced, the Qualifying Improvements made, the amount
paid for the Qualifying Improvements, and such other information reasonably requested by the
City. In addition, upon request by the City, FRED shall provide the City with a copy of its annual
audit required by Florida law.
[SIGNATURE PAGES FOLLOW]
164
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Agreement has been executed by and on behalf
of the City by its [_____], its seal affixed hereto, as attested by its Clerk as of the
_______day of ______________________, 2024.
[CITY][COUNTY]
By: __________________________
[Name][Title]
APPROVED AS TO FORM:
By: __________________________
[_____], Attorney
ATTEST:
By: __________________________
[_____], Clerk
165
[SIGNATURE PAGE TO LIMITED PURPOSE PARTY MEMBERSHIP AGREEMENT]
WITNESS: FLORIDA RESILIENCY AND ENERGY DISTRICT
_________________________
Signature By: ______________________________
__________________________
Print Name
Address: 156 Tuskawilla Road, Suite 2340
Winter Springs, Florida 32708
WITNESS:
__________________________
Signature
___________________________
Print Name
Address: 156 Tuskawilla Road, Suite 2340
Winter Springs, Florida 32708
STATE of FLORIDA
COUNTY OF ______________
The foregoing instrument was acknowledged before me by means of [ ] physical presence
or [ ] online notarization, this ___ day of ___________, 2024, by
_____________________________________, _______________ of the Florida
Resiliency and Energy District, who is personally known to me/has produced
_________________ as identification.
___________________________________
Printed/Typed Name: _________________
Notary Public – State of Florida
Commission Number:
166
RESOLUTION NO. 2024-35
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF WINTER SPRINGS, FLORIDA,
AUTHORIZING A COMMERCIAL PROPERTY ASSESSED CLEAN
ENERGY (C-PACE) PROGRAM WITHIN THE CORPORATE LIMITS OF
THE CITY; APPROVING AN AGREEMENT WITH THE FLORIDA
RESILIENCY AND ENERGY DISTRICT; UTILIZING VOLUNTARY
NON-AD VALOREM ASSESSMENTS TO FINANCE QUALIFING
IMPROVEMENTS; AUTHORIZING THE CITY MANAGER OR
DESIGNEE TO EXECUTE SAID AGREEMENT; AND PROVIDING FOR
IMPLEMENTING ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS, SCRIVENER’S
ERRORS, CONFLICTS, SEVERABILITY, AND EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, pursuant to the Florida PACE Act, codified in Section 163.08 through
Section 163.087, Florida Statutes (the “PACE Act”), commercial property owners may voluntarily
finance improvements to real property related to waste systems, resiliency, flood and water damage
mitigation, energy conservation and efficiency, renewable energy and water conservation
efficiency improvements (“Qualifying Improvements”) and repay such financing through
voluntary special assessments, sometimes referred to as non-ad valorem assessments ("Special
Assessments"); and
WHEREAS, the Florida Resiliency and Energy District (“District”) is a separate legal
entity and unit of local government within the State of Florida which was established by interlocal
agreement for the express purpose of providing a platform to facilitate the financing of Qualifying
Improvements throughout Florida; and
WHEREAS, the upfront costs of Qualifying Improvements impede installation and
existing financing options may be insufficient for commercial property owners to access cost-
effective financing for Qualifying Improvements due to requirements associated with traditional
debt or equity financing options; and
WHEREAS, the District has created a financing, levy and collection process to implement
its C-PACE program to assist commercial property owners who desire to improve their real
property with Qualifying Improvements; and
WHEREAS, pursuant to the PACE Act, the District may only offer its C-PACE program
for commercial properties located within the jurisdiction of the City if the City has authorized the
District to do so; and
WHEREAS, the City Commission deems it to be in the best interest of its residents to
authorize the District’s C-PACE program and to facilitate the financing of Qualifying
Improvements to commercial properties located within the City.
167
Resolution No. 2024-35
City of Winter Springs
Page 2 of 3
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE TOWN/VILLAGE/CITY
COUNCIL/COMMISSION, AS FOLLOWS:
SECTION 1. LEGISLATIVE FINDINGS AND INTENT. The City Commission
hereby adopts and incorporates into this Resolution the City staff report and agenda memorandum
relating to this Resolution. The forgoing recitals are incorporated in this Resolution as if fully set
forth herein and are approved and adopted. The City Commission has complied with all
requirements and procedures of Florida law in processing and noticing this Resolution.
SECTION 2. PERMITTING OF PACE PROGRAM. The City Commission hereby
authorizes the District to offer its C-PACE program in accordance with the PACE Act, to eligible
commercial property owners within the boundaries of the City.
SECTION 3. APPROVAL OF AGREEMENTS; AUTHORIZATION TO
EXECUTE. The City Commission approves the Agreement attached hereto and incorporated
herein as Exhibit “A” and authorizes the Mayor to execute the Agreement.
SECTION 4. IMPLEMENTING ADMINISTRATIVE ACTIONS. The City
Manager is hereby authorized and directed to take such actions as he may deem necessary and
appropriate in order to implement the provisions of this Resolution. The City Manager may, as
deemed appropriate, necessary and convenient, delegate the powers of implementation as herein
set forth to such employees as deemed effectual and prudent.
SECTION 5. SCRIVENER’S ERRORS. Typographical errors and other matters of a
similar nature that do not affect the intent of this Resolution, as determined by the City Clerk and
City Attorney, may be corrected.
SECTION 6. CONFLICTS. All Resolutions or parts of Resolutions in conflict
with any of the provisions of this Resolution are hereby repealed.
SECTION 7. SEVERABILITY. If any Section or portion of a Section of this
Resolution proves to be invalid, unlawful, or unconstitutional, it shall not be held to invalidate or
impair the validity, force, or effect of any other Section or part of this Resolution.
SECTION 8. EFFECTIVE DATE. This Resolution shall become effective
immediately upon its passage and adoption.
ADOPTED by the City Commission of the City of Winter Springs, Florida, in a regular meeting
assembled on this __ day of ____________, 2024.
168
Resolution No. 2024-35
City of Winter Springs
Page 3 of 3
_________________________________________
Kevin McCann, Mayor
ATTEST:
__________________________________
Christian Gowan, City Clerk
Approved as to legal form and sufficiency for
the City of Winter Springs only:
__________________________________
Anthony A. Garganese, City Attorney
169
CHAPTER 2024-273
Committee Substitute for
Committee Substitute for Senate Bill No.770
An act relating to improvements to real property;amending s.163.08,F.S.;
deleting provisions relating to legislative findings and intent;defining
terms and revising definitions;creating s.163.081,F.S.;authorizing a
program administrator to offer a program for financing qualifying
improvements for residential property when authorized by a county or
municipality;requiring an authorized program administrator that admin-
isters an authorized program to meet certain requirements;authorizing a
county or municipality to enter into an interlocal agreement to implement
a program;authorizing a county or municipality to deauthorize a program
administrator through certain measures;allowing a recorded financing
agreement at the time of deauthorization to continue,with an exception;
authorizing a program administrator to contract with third-party admin-
istrators to implement the program;authorizing a program administrator
to levy non-ad valorem assessments for a certain purpose;providing for
compensation for tax collectors for actual costs incurred to collect non-ad
valorem assessments;authorizing a program administrator to incur debt
for the purpose of providing financing for qualifying improvements;
authorizing the owner of record of the residential property to apply to
the program administrator to finance a qualifying improvement;requiring
the program administrator to make certain findings before entering into a
financing agreement;requiring the program administrator to ascertain
certain financial information from the property owner before entering into
a financing agreement;requiring certain documentation before the
financing agreement is approved and recorded;requiring an advisement
and notification for certain qualifying improvements;requiring certain
financing agreement and contract provisions for change orders under
certain circumstances;prohibiting a financing agreement from being
entered into under certain circumstances;requiring the program admin-
istrator to provide certain information before a financing agreement may
be executed;requiring an oral,recorded telephone call with the residential
property owner to confirm findings and disclosures before the approval of a
financing agreement;requiring the residential property owner to provide
written notice to the holder or loan servicer of his or her intent to enter into
a financing agreement as well as other financial information;requiring
that proof of such notice be provided to the program administrator;
providing that a certain acceleration provision in an agreement between
the residential property owner and mortgagor or lienholder is unenforce-
able;providing that the lienholder or loan servicer retains certain
authority;authorizing a residential property owner,under certain
circumstances and within a certain timeframe,to cancel a financing
agreement without financial penalty;requiring recording of the financing
agreement in a specified timeframe;creating the seller’s disclosure
statements for properties offered for sale which have assessments on
1
CODING:Words stricken are deletions;words underlined are additions.170
them for qualifying improvements;requiring the program administrator
to confirm that certain conditions are met before disbursing final funds to
a qualifying improvement contractor for qualifying improvements on
residential property;requiring a program administrator to confirm that
the applicable work service has been completed or the final permit for the
qualifying improvement has been closed and evidence of substantial
completion of construction or improvement has been issued;creating s.
163.082,F.S.;authorizing a program administrator to offer a program for
financing qualifying improvements for commercial property when author-
ized by a county or municipality;requiring an authorized program
administrator that administers an authorized program to meet certain
requirements;authorizing a county or municipality to enter into an
interlocal agreement to implement a program;authorizing a county or
municipality to deauthorize a program administrator through certain
measures;authorizing a recorded financing agreement at the time of
deauthorization to continue,with an exception;authorizing a program
administrator to contract with third-party administrators to implement
the program;authorizing a program administrator to levy non-ad valorem
assessments for a certain purpose;providing for compensation for tax
collectors for actual costs incurred to collect non-ad valorem assessments;
authorizing a program administrator to incur debt for the purpose of
providing financing for qualifying improvements;authorizing the owner of
record of the commercial property to apply to the program administrator
to finance a qualifying improvement;requiring the program administrator
to receive the written consent of current holders or loan servicers of certain
mortgages encumbering or secured by commercial property;requiring a
program administrator offering a program for financing qualifying
improvements to commercial property to certain underwriting criteria;
requiring the program administrator to make certain findings before
entering into a financing agreement;requiring the program administrator
to ascertain certain financial information from the property owner before
entering into a financing agreement;requiring the program administrator
to document and retain certain findings;requiring certain financing
agreement and contract provisions for change orders under certain
circumstances;prohibiting a financing agreement from being entered
into under certain circumstances;requiring the program administrator to
provide certain information before a financing agreement may be
executed;requiring any financing agreement executed pursuant to this
section be submitted for recording in the public records of the county
where the commercial property is located in a specified timeframe;
requiring that the recorded agreement provide constructive notice that
the non-ad valorem assessment levied on the property is a lien of equal
dignity;providing that a lien with a certain acceleration provision is
unenforceable;creating the seller’s disclosure statements for properties
offered for sale which have assessments on them for qualifying improve-
ments;requiring the program administrator to confirm that certain
conditions are met before disbursing final funds to a qualifying improve-
ment contractor for qualifying improvements on commercial property;
providing construction;creating s.163.083,F.S.;requiring a county or
Ch.2024-273 LAWS OF FLORIDA Ch.2024-273
2
CODING:Words stricken are deletions;words underlined are additions.171
municipality to establish or approve a process for the registration of a
qualifying improvement contractor to install qualifying improvements;
requiring certain conditions for a qualifying improvement contractor to
participate in a program;prohibiting a third-party administrator from
registering as a qualifying improvement contractor;requiring the pro-
gram administrator to monitor qualifying improvement contractors,
enforce certain penalties for a finding of violation,and post certain
information online;creating s.163.084,F.S.;authorizing the program
administrator to contract with entities to administer an authorized
program;providing certain requirements for a third-party administrator;
prohibiting a program administrator from acting as a third-party
administrator under certain circumstances;providing an exception;
requiring the program administrator to include in its contract with the
third-party administrator the right to perform annual reviews of the
administrator;authorizing the program administrator to take certain
actions if the program administrator finds that the third-party adminis-
trator has committed a violation of its contract;authorizing a program
administrator to terminate an agreement with a third-party adminis-
trator under certain circumstances;providing for the continuation of
certain financing agreements after the termination or suspension of the
third-party administrator,with an exception;creating s.163.085,F.S.;
requiring that,in communicating with the property owner,the program
administrator,qualifying improvement contractor,or third-party admin-
istrator comply with certain requirements;prohibiting the program
administrator or third-party administrator from disclosing certain finan-
cing information to a qualifying improvement contractor;prohibiting a
qualifying improvement contractor from making certain advertisements
or solicitations;providing exceptions;prohibiting a program adminis-
trator or third-party administrator from providing certain payments,fees,
or kickbacks to a qualifying improvement contractor;prohibiting a
program administrator or third-party administrator from reimbursing a
qualifying improvement contractor for certain expenses;prohibiting a
qualifying improvement contractor from providing different prices for a
qualifying improvement;requiring a contract between a property owner
and a qualifying improvement contractor to include certain provisions;
prohibiting a program administrator,qualifying improvement contractor,
or third-party administrator from providing any cash payment or any-
thing of material value to a property owner which is explicitly conditioned
on a financing agreement;providing exceptions;creating s.163.086,F.S.;
prohibiting a recorded financing agreement from being removed from
attachment to a property under certain circumstances;providing for the
unenforceability of a financing agreement under certain circumstances;
providing provisions for when a qualifying improvement contractor
initiates work on an unenforceable contract;providing that a qualifying
improvement contractor may retrieve chattel or fixtures delivered
pursuant to an unenforceable contract if certain conditions are met;
providing that an unenforceable contract will remain unenforceable under
certain circumstances;creating s.163.087,F.S.;requiring a program
administrator authorized to administer a program for financing a
Ch.2024-273 LAWS OF FLORIDA Ch.2024-273
3
CODING:Words stricken are deletions;words underlined are additions.172
qualifying improvement to post on its website an annual report;specifying
requirements for the report;requiring the Auditor General to conduct an
operational audit of each program administrator;requiring the Auditor
General to adopt certain rules requiring certain reporting from the
program administrator;requiring program administrators and,if applic-
able,third-party administrators to post the report on its website;
providing that a contract,agreement,authorization,or interlocal agree-
ment entered into before a certain date may continue without additional
action by the county or municipality;requiring that the program
administrator comply with the act and that any related contracts,
agreements,authorizations,or interlocal agreements be amended to
comply with the act;providing an effective date.
Be It Enacted by the Legislature of the State of Florida:
Section 1.Section 163.08,Florida Statutes,is amended to read:
(Substantial rewording of section.See
s.163.08,F.S.,for present text.)
163.08 Definitions.—As used in ss.163.081-163.087,the term:
(1)“Commercial property”means real property other than residential
property.The term includes,but is not limited to,a property zoned
multifamily residential which is composed of five or more dwelling units;
and real property used for commercial,industrial,or agricultural purposes.
(2)“Program administrator”means a county,a municipality,a depen-
dent special district as defined in s.189.012,or a separate legal entity
created pursuant to s.163.01(7)which directly operates a program for
financing qualifying improvements and is authorized pursuant to s.163.081
or s.163.082.
(3)“Property owner”means the owner or owners of record of real
property.The term includes real property held in trust for the benefit of one
or more individuals,in which case the individual or individuals may be
considered as the property owner or owners,provided that the trustee
provides written consent.The term does not include persons renting,using,
living,or otherwise occupying real property.
(4)“Qualifying improvement”means the following permanent improve-
ments located on real property within the jurisdiction of an authorized
financing program:
(a)For improvements on residential property:
1.Repairing,replacing,or improving a central sewerage system,
converting an onsite sewage treatment and disposal system to a central
sewerage system,or,if no central sewerage system is available,removing,
Ch.2024-273 LAWS OF FLORIDA Ch.2024-273
4
CODING:Words stricken are deletions;words underlined are additions.173
repairing,replacing,or improving an onsite sewage treatment and disposal
system to an advanced system or technology.
2.Repairing,replacing,or improving a roof,including improvements
that strengthen the roof deck attachment;create a secondary water barrier
to prevent water intrusion;install wind-resistant shingles or gable-end
bracing;or reinforce roof-to-wall connections.
3.Providing flood and water damage mitigation and resiliency improve-
ments,prioritizing repairs,replacement,or improvements that qualify for
reductions in flood insurance premiums,including raising a structure above
the base flood elevation to reduce flood damage;constructing a flood
diversion apparatus,drainage gate,or seawall improvement,including
seawall repairs and seawall replacements;purchasing flood-damage-resis-
tant building materials;or making electrical,mechanical,plumbing,or
other system improvements that reduce flood damage.
4.Replacing windows or doors,including garage doors,with energy-
efficient,impact-resistant,wind-resistant,or hurricane windows or doors or
installing storm shutters.
5.Installing energy-efficient heating,cooling,or ventilation systems.
6.Replacing or installing insulation.
7.Replacing or installing energy-efficient water heaters.
8.Installing and affixing a permanent generator.
9.Providing a renewable energy improvement,including the installation
of any system in which the electrical,mechanical,or thermal energy is
produced from a method that uses solar,geothermal,bioenergy,wind,or
hydrogen.
(b)For installing or constructing improvements on commercial property:
1.Waste system improvements,which consists of repairing,replacing,
improving,or constructing a central sewerage system,converting an onsite
sewage treatment and disposal system to a central sewerage system,or,if no
central sewerage system is available,removing,repairing,replacing,or
improving an onsite sewage treatment and disposal system to an advanced
system or technology.
2.Making resiliency improvements,which includes but is not limited to:
a.Repairing,replacing,improving,or constructing a roof,including
improvements that strengthen the roof deck attachment;
b.Creating a secondary water barrier to prevent water intrusion;
c.Installing wind-resistant shingles or gable-end bracing;
Ch.2024-273 LAWS OF FLORIDA Ch.2024-273
5
CODING:Words stricken are deletions;words underlined are additions.174
d.Reinforcing roof-to-wall connections;or
e.Providing flood and water damage mitigation and resiliency improve-
ments,prioritizing repairs,replacement,or improvements that qualify for
reductions in flood insurance premiums,including raising a structure above
the base flood elevation to reduce flood damage;creating or improving
stormwater and flood resiliency,including flood diversion apparatus,
drainage gates,or shoreline improvements;purchasing flood-damage-
resistant building materials;or making any other improvements necessary
to achieve a sustainable building rating or compliance with a national model
resiliency standard and any improvements to a structure to achieve wind or
flood insurance rate reductions,including building elevation.
3.Energy conservation and efficiency improvements,which are mea-
sures to reduce consumption through efficient use or conservation of
electricity,natural gas,propane,or other forms of energy,including but
not limited to,air sealing;installation of insulation;installation of energy-
efficient heating,cooling,or ventilation systems;building modification to
increase the use of daylight;window replacement;windows;energy controls
or energy recovery systems;installation of electric vehicle charging equip-
ment;installation of efficient lighting equipment;or any other improve-
ments necessary to achieve a sustainable building rating or compliance with
a national model green building code.
4.Renewable energy improvements,including the installation of any
system in which the electrical,mechanical,or thermal energy is produced
from a method that uses solar,geothermal,bioenergy,wind,or hydrogen.
5.Water conservation efficiency improvements,which are measures to
reduce consumption through efficient use or conservation of water.
(5)“Qualifying improvement contractor”means a licensed or registered
contractor who has been registered to participate by a program adminis-
trator pursuant to s.163.083 to install or otherwise perform work to make
qualifying improvements on residential property financed pursuant to a
program authorized under s.163.081.
(6)“Residential property”means real property zoned as residential or
multifamily residential and composed of four or fewer dwelling units.
(7)“Third-party administrator”means an entity under contract with a
program administrator pursuant to s.163.084.
Section 2.Section 163.081,Florida Statutes,is created to read:
163.081 Financing qualifying improvements to residential property.—
(1)RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY PROGRAM AUTHORIZATION.—
(a)A program administrator may only offer a program for financing
qualifying improvements to residential property within the jurisdiction of a
Ch.2024-273 LAWS OF FLORIDA Ch.2024-273
6
CODING:Words stricken are deletions;words underlined are additions.175
county or municipality if the county or municipality has authorized by
ordinance or resolution the program administrator to administer the
program for financing qualifying improvements to residential property.
The authorized program must,at a minimum,meet the requirements of this
section.
(b)Pursuant to this section or as otherwise provided by law or pursuant
to a county’s or municipality’s home rule power,a county or municipality
may enter into an interlocal agreement providing for a partnership between
one or more counties or municipalities for the purpose of facilitating a
program to finance qualifying improvements to residential property located
within the jurisdiction of the counties or municipalities that are party to the
agreement.
(c)A county or municipality may deauthorize a program administrator
through repeal of the ordinance or resolution adopted pursuant to paragraph
(a)or other action.Any recorded financing agreements at the time of
deauthorization shall continue,except any financing agreement for which
the provisions of s.163.086 apply.
(d)An authorized program administrator may contract with one or more
third-party administrators to implement the program as provided in s.
163.084.
(e)An authorized program administrator may levy non-ad valorem
assessments to facilitate repayment of financing qualifying improvements.
Costs incurred by the program administrator for such purpose may be
collected as a non-ad valorem assessment.A non-ad valorem assessment
shall be collected pursuant to s.197.3632 and,notwithstanding s.
197.3632(8)(a),shall not be subject to discount for early payment.However,
the notice and adoption requirements of s.197.3632(4)do not apply if this
section is used and complied with,and the intent resolution,publication of
notice,and mailed notices to the property appraiser,tax collector,and
Department of Revenue required by s.197.3632(3)(a)may be provided on or
before August 15 of each year in conjunction with any non-ad valorem
assessment authorized by this section,if the property appraiser,tax
collector,and program administrator agree.The program administrator
shall only compensate the tax collector for the actual cost of collecting non-ad
valorem assessments,not to exceed 2 percent of the amount collected and
remitted.
(f)A program administrator may incur debt for the purpose of providing
financing for qualifying improvements,which debt is payable from revenues
received from the improved property or any other available revenue source
authorized by law.
(2)APPLICATION.—The owner of record of the residential property
within the jurisdiction of an authorized program may apply to the
authorized program administrator to finance a qualifying improvement.
Ch.2024-273 LAWS OF FLORIDA Ch.2024-273
7
CODING:Words stricken are deletions;words underlined are additions.176
The program administrator may only enter into a financing agreement with
the property owner.
(3)FINANCING AGREEMENTS.—
(a)Before entering into a financing agreement,the program adminis-
trator must make each of the following findings based on a review of public
records derived from a commercially accepted source and the property
owner’s statements,records,and credit reports:
1.There are sufficient resources to complete the project.
2.The total amount of any non-ad valorem assessment for a residential
property under this section does not exceed 20 percent of the just value of the
property as determined by the property appraiser.The total amount may
exceed this limitation upon written consent of the holders or loan servicers of
any mortgage encumbering or otherwise secured by the residential property.
3.The financing agreement does not utilize a negative amortization
schedule,a balloon payment,or prepayment fees or fines other than nominal
administrative costs.Capitalized interest included in the original balance of
the assessment financing agreement does not constitute negative amortiza-
tion.
4.All property taxes and any other assessments,including non-ad
valorem assessments,levied on the same bill as the property taxes are
current and have not been delinquent for the preceding 3 years,or the
property owner’s period of ownership,whichever is less.
5.There are no outstanding fines or fees related to zoning or code
enforcement violations issued by a county or municipality,unless the
qualifying improvement will remedy the zoning or code violation.
6.There are no involuntary liens,including,but not limited to,
construction liens on the residential property.
7.No notices of default or other evidence of property-based debt
delinquency have been recorded and not released during the preceding 3
years or the property owner’s period of ownership,whichever is less.
8.The property owner is current on all mortgage debt on the residential
property.
9.The property owner has not been subject to a bankruptcy proceeding
within the last 5 years unless it was discharged or dismissed more than 2
years before the date on which the property owner applied for financing.
10.The residential property is not subject to an existing home equity
conversion mortgage or reverse mortgage product.
Ch.2024-273 LAWS OF FLORIDA Ch.2024-273
8
CODING:Words stricken are deletions;words underlined are additions.177
11.The term of the financing agreement does not exceed the weighted
average useful life of the qualified improvements to which the greatest
portion of funds disbursed under the assessment contract is attributable,not
to exceed 20 years.The program administrator shall determine the useful
life of a qualifying improvement using established standards,including
certification criteria from government agencies or nationally recognized
standards and testing organizations.
12.The total estimated annual payment amount for all financing
agreements entered into under this section on the residential property
does not exceed 10 percent of the property owner’s annual household income.
Income must be confirmed using reasonable evidence and not solely by a
property owner’s statement.
13.If the qualifying improvement is for the conversion of an onsite
sewage treatment and disposal system to a central sewerage system,the
property owner has utilized all available local government funding for such
conversions and is unable to obtain financing for the improvement on more
favorable terms through a local government program designed to support
such conversions.
(b)Before entering into a financing agreement,the program adminis-
trator must determine if there are any current financing agreements on the
residential property and if the property owner has obtained or sought to
obtain additional qualifying improvements on the same property which have
not yet been recorded.The existence of a prior qualifying improvement non-
ad valorem assessment or a prior financing agreement is not evidence that
the financing agreement under consideration is affordable or meets other
program requirements.
(c)Findings satisfying paragraphs (a)and (b)must be documented,
including supporting evidence relied upon,and provided to the property
owner prior to a financing agreement being approved and recorded.The
program administrator must retain the documentation for the duration of
the financing agreement.
(d)If the qualifying improvement is estimated to cost $10,000 or more,
before entering into a financing agreement the program administrator must
advise the property owner in writing that the best practice is to obtain
estimates from more than one unaffiliated,registered qualifying improve-
ment contractor for the qualifying improvement and notify the property
owner in writing of the advertising and solicitation requirements of s.
163.085.
(e)A property owner and the program administrator may agree to
include in the financing agreement provisions for allowing change orders
necessary to complete the qualifying improvement.Any financing agree-
ment or contract for qualifying improvements which includes such provi-
sions must meet the requirements of this paragraph.If a proposed change
order on a qualifying improvement will increase the original cost of the
Ch.2024-273 LAWS OF FLORIDA Ch.2024-273
9
CODING:Words stricken are deletions;words underlined are additions.178
qualifying improvement by 20 percent or more or will expand the scope of the
qualifying improvement by more than 20 percent,before the change order
may be executed which would result in an increase in the amount financed
through the program administrator for the qualifying improvement,the
program administrator must notify the property owner,provide an updated
written disclosure form as described in subsection (4)to the property owner,
and obtain written approval of the change from the property owner.
(f)A financing agreement may not be entered into if the total cost of the
qualifying improvement,including program fees and interest,is less than
$2,500.
(g)A financing agreement may not be entered into for qualifying
improvements in buildings or facilities under new construction or construc-
tion for which a certificate of occupancy or similar evidence of substantial
completion of new construction or improvement has not been issued.
(4)DISCLOSURES.—
(a)In addition to the requirements imposed in subsection (3),a financing
agreement may not be executed unless the program administrator first
provides,including via electronic means,a written financing estimate and
disclosure to the property owner which includes all of the following,each of
which must be individually acknowledged in writing by the property owner:
1.The estimated total amount to be financed,including the total and
itemized cost of the qualifying improvement,program fees,and capitalized
interest;
2.The estimated annual non-ad valorem assessment;
3.The term of the financing agreement and the schedule for the non-ad
valorem assessments;
4.The interest charged and estimated annual percentage rate;
5.A description of the qualifying improvement;
6.The total estimated annual costs that will be required to be paid under
the assessment contract,including program fees;
7.The total estimated average monthly equivalent amount of funds that
would need to be saved in order to pay the annual costs of the non-ad valorem
assessment,including program fees;
8.The estimated due date of the first payment that includes the non-ad
valorem assessment;
9.A disclosure that the financing agreement may be canceled within 3
business days after signing the financing agreement without any financial
penalty for doing so;
Ch.2024-273 LAWS OF FLORIDA Ch.2024-273
10
CODING:Words stricken are deletions;words underlined are additions.179
10.A disclosure that the property owner may repay any remaining
amount owed,at any time,without penalty or imposition of additional
prepayment fees or fines other than nominal administrative costs;
11.A disclosure that if the property owner sells or refinances the
residential property,the property owner may be required by a mortgage
lender to pay off the full amount owed under each financing agreement
under this section;
12.A disclosure that the assessment will be collected along with the
property owner’s property taxes,and will result in a lien on the property
from the date the financing agreement is recorded;
13.A disclosure that potential utility or insurance savings are not
guaranteed,and will not reduce the assessment amount;and
14.A disclosure that failure to pay the assessment may result in
penalties,fees,including attorney fees,court costs,and the issuance of a
tax certificate that could result in the property owner losing the property and
a judgment against the property owner,and may affect the property owner’s
credit rating.
(b)Prior to the financing agreement being approved,the program
administrator must conduct an oral,recorded telephone call with the
property owner during which the program administrator must confirm
each finding or disclosure required in subsection (3)and this section.
(5)NOTICE TO LIENHOLDERS AND SERVICERS.—At least 5 busi-
ness days before entering into a financing agreement,the property owner
must provide to the holders or loan servicers of any existing mortgages
encumbering or otherwise secured by the residential property a written
notice of the owner’s intent to enter into a financing agreement together with
the maximum amount to be financed,including the amount of any fees and
interest,and the maximum annual assessment necessary to repay the total.
A verified copy or other proof of such notice must be provided to the program
administrator.A provision in any agreement between a mortgagor or other
lienholder and a property owner,or otherwise now or hereafter binding upon
a property owner,which allows for acceleration of payment of the mortgage,
note,or lien or other unilateral modification solely as a result of entering into
a financing agreement as provided for in this section is unenforceable.This
subsection does not limit the authority of the holder or loan servicer to
increase the required monthly escrow by an amount necessary to pay the
annual assessment.
(6)CANCELLATION.—A property owner may cancel a financing
agreement on a form established by the program administrator within 3
business days after signing the financing agreement without any financial
penalty for doing so.
Ch.2024-273 LAWS OF FLORIDA Ch.2024-273
11
CODING:Words stricken are deletions;words underlined are additions.180
(7)RECORDING.—Any financing agreement executed pursuant to this
section,or a summary memorandum of such agreement,shall be submitted
for recording in the public records of the county within which the residential
property is located by the program administrator within 10 business days
after execution of the agreement and the 3-day cancellation period.The
recorded agreement must provide constructive notice that the non-ad
valorem assessment to be levied on the property constitutes a lien of
equal dignity to county taxes and assessments from the date of recordation.
A notice of lien for the full amount of the financing may be recorded in the
public records of the county where the property is located.Such lien is not
enforceable in a manner that results in the acceleration of the remaining
nondelinquent unpaid balance under the assessment financing agreement.
(8)SALE OF RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY.—At or before the time a
seller executes a contract for the sale of any residential property for which a
non-ad valorem assessment has been levied under this section and has an
unpaid balance due,the seller shall give the prospective purchaser a written
disclosure statement in the following form,which must be set forth in the
contract or in a separate writing:
QUALIFYING IMPROVEMENTS.—The property being purchased is
subject to an assessment on the property pursuant to s.163.081,Florida
Statutes.The assessment is for a qualifying improvement to the
property and is not based on the value of the property.You are
encouraged to contact the property appraiser’s office to learn more about
this and other assessments that may be provided by law.
(9)DISBURSEMENTS.—Before disbursing final funds to a qualifying
improvement contractor for a qualifying improvement on residential
property,the program administrator shall confirm that the applicable
work or service has been completed or,as applicable,that the final permit for
the qualifying improvement has been closed with all permit requirements
satisfied or a certificate of occupancy or similar evidence of substantial
completion of construction or improvement has been issued.
(10)CONSTRUCTION.—This section is additional and supplemental to
county and municipal home rule authority and not in derogation of such
authority or a limitation upon such authority.
Section 3.Section 163.082,Florida Statutes,is created to read:
163.082 Financing qualifying improvements to commercial property.—
(1)COMMERCIAL PROPERTY PROGRAM AUTHORIZATION.—
(a)A program administrator may only offer a program for financing
qualifying improvements to commercial property within the jurisdiction of a
county or municipality if the county or municipality has authorized by
ordinance or resolution the program administrator to administer the
program for financing qualifying improvements to commercial property.
Ch.2024-273 LAWS OF FLORIDA Ch.2024-273
12
CODING:Words stricken are deletions;words underlined are additions.181
The authorized program must,at a minimum,meet the requirements of this
section.
(b)Pursuant to this section or as otherwise provided by law or pursuant
to a county’s or municipality’s home rule power,a county or municipality
may enter into an interlocal agreement providing for a partnership between
one or more counties or municipalities for the purpose of facilitating a
program for financing qualifying improvements to commercial property
located within the jurisdiction of the counties or municipalities that are
party to the agreement.
(c)A county or municipality may deauthorize a program administrator
through repeal of the ordinance or resolution adopted pursuant to paragraph
(a)or other action.Any recorded financing agreements at the time of
deauthorization shall continue,except any financing agreement for which
the provisions of s.163.086 apply.
(d)A program administrator may contract with one or more third-party
administrators to implement the program as provided in s.163.084.
(e)An authorized program administrator may levy non-ad valorem
assessments to facilitate repayment of financing or refinancing qualifying
improvements.Costs incurred by the program administrator for such
purpose may be collected as a non-ad valorem assessment.A non-ad valorem
assessment shall be collected pursuant to s.197.3632 and,notwithstanding
s.197.3632(8)(a),is not subject to discount for early payment.However,the
notice and adoption requirements of s.197.3632(4)do not apply if this
section is used and complied with,and the intent resolution,publication of
notice,and mailed notices to the property appraiser,tax collector,and
Department of Revenue required by s.197.3632(3)(a)may be provided on or
before August 15 of each year in conjunction with any non-ad valorem
assessment authorized by this section,if the property appraiser,tax
collector,and program administrator agree.The program administrator
shall only compensate the tax collector for the actual cost of collecting non-ad
valorem assessments,not to exceed 2 percent of the amount collected and
remitted.
(f)A program administrator may incur debt for the purpose of providing
financing for qualifying improvements,which debt is payable from revenues
received from the improved property or any other available revenue source
authorized by law.
(2)APPLICATION.—The owner of record of the commercial property
within the jurisdiction of the authorized program may apply to the program
administrator to finance a qualifying improvement and enter into a
financing agreement with the program administrator to make such
improvement.The program administrator may only enter into a financing
agreement with a property owner.
Ch.2024-273 LAWS OF FLORIDA Ch.2024-273
13
CODING:Words stricken are deletions;words underlined are additions.182
(3)CONSENT OF LIENHOLDERS AND SERVICERS.—The program
administrator must receive the written consent of the current holders or loan
servicers of any mortgage that encumbers or is otherwise secured by the
commercial property or that will otherwise be secured by the property before
a financing agreement may be executed.
(4)FINANCING AGREEMENTS.—
(a)A program administrator offering a program for financing qualifying
improvements to commercial property must maintain underwriting criteria
sufficient to determine the financial feasibility of entering into a financing
agreement.To enter into a financing agreement,the program administrator
must,at a minimum,make each of the following findings based on a review
of public records derived from a commercially accepted source and the
statements,records,and credit reports of the commercial property owner:
1.There are sufficient resources to complete the project.
2.All property taxes and any other assessments,including non-ad
valorem assessments,levied on the same bill as the property taxes are
current.
3.There are no involuntary liens greater than $5,000,including,but not
limited to,construction liens on the commercial property.
4.No notices of default or other evidence of property-based debt
delinquency have been recorded and not been released during the preceding
3 years or the property owner’s period of ownership,whichever is less.
5.The property owner is current on all mortgage debt on the commercial
property.
6.The term of the financing agreement does not exceed the weighted
average useful life of the qualified improvements to which the greatest
portion of funds disbursed under the assessment contract is attributable,not
to exceed 30 years.The program administrator shall determine the useful
life of a qualifying improvement using established standards,including
certification criteria from government agencies or nationally recognized
standards and testing organizations.
7.The property owner is not currently the subject of a bankruptcy
proceeding.
(b)Before entering into a financing agreement,the program adminis-
trator shall determine if there are any current financing agreements on the
commercial property and whether the property owner has obtained or
sought to obtain additional qualifying improvements on the same property
which have not yet been recorded.The existence of a prior qualifying
improvement non-ad valorem assessment or a prior financing agreement is
not evidence that the financing agreement under consideration is affordable
or meets other program requirements.
Ch.2024-273 LAWS OF FLORIDA Ch.2024-273
14
CODING:Words stricken are deletions;words underlined are additions.183
(c)The program administrator shall document and retain findings
satisfying paragraphs (a)and (b),including supporting evidence relied
upon,which were made prior to the financing agreement being approved and
recorded,for the duration of the financing agreement.
(d)A property owner and the program administrator may agree to
include in the financing agreement provisions for allowing change orders
necessary to complete the qualifying improvement.Any financing agree-
ment or contract for qualifying improvements which includes such provi-
sions must meet the requirements of this paragraph.If a proposed change
order on a qualifying improvement will increase the original cost of the
qualifying improvement by 20 percent or more or will expand the scope of the
qualifying improvement by 20 percent or more,before the change order may
be executed which would result in an increase in the amount financed
through the program administrator for the qualifying improvement,the
program administrator must notify the property owner,provide an updated
written disclosure form as described in subsection (5)to the property owner,
and obtain written approval of the change from the property owner.
(e)A financing agreement may not be entered into if the total cost of the
qualifying improvement,including program fees and interest,is less than
$2,500.
(5)DISCLOSURES.—In addition to the requirements imposed in sub-
section (4),a financing agreement may not be executed unless the program
administrator provides,whether on a separate document or included with
other disclosures or forms,a financing estimate and disclosure to the
property owner which includes all of the following:
(a)The estimated total amount to be financed,including the total and
itemized cost of the qualifying improvement,program fees,and capitalized
interest;
(b)The estimated annual non-ad valorem assessment;
(c)The term of the financing agreement and the schedule for the non-ad
valorem assessments;
(d)The interest charged and estimated annual percentage rate;
(e)A description of the qualifying improvement;
(f)The total estimated annual costs that will be required to be paid under
the assessment contract,including program fees;
(g)The estimated due date of the first payment that includes the non-ad
valorem assessment;and
(h)A disclosure of any prepayment penalties,fees,or fines as set forth in
the financing agreement.
Ch.2024-273 LAWS OF FLORIDA Ch.2024-273
15
CODING:Words stricken are deletions;words underlined are additions.184
(6)RECORDING.—Any financing agreement executed pursuant to this
section or a summary memorandum of such agreement must be submitted
for recording in the public records of the county within which the commercial
property is located by the program administrator within 10 business days
after execution of the agreement.The recorded agreement must provide
constructive notice that the non-ad valorem assessment to be levied on the
property constitutes a lien of equal dignity to county taxes and assessments
from the date of recordation.A notice of lien for the full amount of the
financing may be recorded in the public records of the county where the
property is located.Such lien is not enforceable in a manner that results in
the acceleration of the remaining nondelinquent unpaid balance under the
assessment financing agreement.
(7)SALE OF COMMERCIAL PROPERTY.—At or before the time a
seller executes a contract for the sale of any commercial property for which a
non-ad valorem assessment has been levied under this section and has an
unpaid balance due,the seller shall give the prospective purchaser a written
disclosure statement in the following form,which must be set forth in the
contract or in a separate writing:
QUALIFYING IMPROVEMENTS.—The property being purchased is
subject to an assessment on the property pursuant to s.163.082,Florida
Statutes.The assessment is for a qualifying improvement to the
property and is not based on the value of the property.You are
encouraged to contact the property appraiser’s office to learn more about
this and other assessments that may be provided for by law.
(8)COMPLETION CERTIFICATE.—Upon disbursement of all finan-
cing and completion of installation of qualifying improvements financed,the
program administrator shall retain a certificate that the qualifying
improvements have been installed and are in good working order.
(9)CONSTRUCTION.—This section is additional and supplemental to
county and municipal home rule authority and not in derogation of such
authority or a limitation upon such authority.
Section 4.Section 163.083,Florida Statutes,is created to read:
163.083 Qualifying improvement contractors.—
(1)A county or municipality shall establish a process,or approve a
process established by a program administrator,to register contractors for
participation in a program authorized by a county or municipality pursuant
to s.163.081.A qualifying improvement contractor may only perform such
work that the contractor is appropriately licensed,registered,and permitted
to conduct.At the time of application to participate and during participation
in the program,contractors must:
(a)Hold all necessary licenses or registrations for the work to be
performed which are in good standing.Good standing includes no
Ch.2024-273 LAWS OF FLORIDA Ch.2024-273
16
CODING:Words stricken are deletions;words underlined are additions.185
outstanding complaints with the state or local government which issues such
licenses or registrations.
(b)Comply with all applicable federal,state,and local laws and
regulations,including obtaining and maintaining any other permits,
licenses,or registrations required for engaging in business in the jurisdiction
in which it operates and maintaining all state-required bond and insurance
coverage.
(c)File with the program administrator a written statement in a form
approved by the county or municipality that the contractor will comply with
applicable laws and rules and qualifying improvement program policies and
procedures,including those on advertising and marketing.
(2)A third-party administrator or a program administrator,either
directly or through an affiliate,may not be registered as a qualifying
improvement contractor.
(3)A program administrator shall establish and maintain:
(a)A process to monitor qualifying improvement contractors for perfor-
mance and compliance with requirements of the program and must conduct
regular reviews of qualifying improvement contractors to confirm that each
qualifying improvement contractor is in good standing.
(b)Procedures for notice and imposition of penalties upon a finding of
violation,which may consist of placement of the qualifying improvement
contractor in a probationary status that places conditions for continued
participation,suspension,or termination from participation in the program.
(c)An easily accessible page on its website that provides information on
the status of registered qualifying improvement contractors,including any
imposed penalties,and the names of any qualifying improvement contrac-
tors currently on probationary status or that are suspended or terminated
from participation in the program.
Section 5.Section 163.084,Florida Statutes,is created to read:
163.084 Third-party administrator for financing qualifying improve-
ments programs.—
(1)(a)A program administrator may contract with one or more third-
party administrators to administer a program authorized by a county or
municipality pursuant to s.163.081 or s.163.082 on behalf of and at the
discretion of the program administrator.
(b)The third-party administrator must be independent of the program
administrator and have no conflicts of interest between managers or owners
of the third-party administrator and program administrator managers,
owners,officials,or employees with oversight over the contract.A program
administrator,either directly or through an affiliate,may not act as a third-
Ch.2024-273 LAWS OF FLORIDA Ch.2024-273
17
CODING:Words stricken are deletions;words underlined are additions.186
party administrator for itself or for another program administrator.
However,this paragraph does not apply to a third-party administrator
created by an entity authorized in law pursuant to s.288.9604.
(c)The contract must provide for the entity to administer the program
according to the requirements of s.163.081 or s.163.082 and the ordinance
or resolution adopted by the county or municipality authorizing the
program.However,only the program administrator may levy or administer
non-ad valorem assessments.
(2)A program administrator may not contract with a third-party
administrator that,within the last 3 years,has been:
(a)Prohibited,after notice and a hearing,from serving as a third-party
administrator for another program administrator for program or contract
violations in this state;or
(b)Found by a court of competent jurisdiction to have substantially
violated state or federal laws related to the administration of ss.163.081-
163.086 or a similar program in another jurisdiction.
(3)The program administrator must include in any contract with the
third-party administrator the right to perform annual reviews of the
administrator to confirm compliance with ss.163.081-163.086,the ordi-
nance or resolution adopted by the county or municipality,and the contract
with the program administrator.If the program administrator finds that the
third-party administrator has committed a violation of ss.163.081-163.086,
the adopted ordinance or resolution,or the contract with the program
administrator,the program administrator shall provide the third-party
administrator with notice of the violation and may,as set forth in the
adopted ordinance or resolution or the contract with the third-party
administrator:
(a)Place the third-party administrator in a probationary status that
places conditions for continued operations.
(b)Impose any fines or sanctions.
(c)Suspend the activity of the third-party administrator for a period of
time.
(d)Terminate the agreement with the third-party administrator.
(4)A program administrator may terminate the agreement with a third-
party administrator,as set forth by the county or municipality in its adopted
ordinance or resolution or the contract with the third-party administrator,if
the program administrator makes a finding that:
(a)The third-party administrator has violated the contract with the
program administrator.The contract may set forth substantial violations
that may result in contract termination and other violations that may
Ch.2024-273 LAWS OF FLORIDA Ch.2024-273
18
CODING:Words stricken are deletions;words underlined are additions.187
provide for a period of time for correction before the contract may be
terminated.
(b)The third-party administrator,or an officer,a director,a manager or
a managing member,or a control person of the third-party administrator,
has been found by a court of competent jurisdiction to have violated state or
federal laws related to the administration of a program authorized of the
provisions of ss.163.081-163.086 or a similar program in another jurisdic-
tion within the last 5 years.
(c)Any officer,director,manager or managing member,or control person
of the third-party administrator has been convicted of,or has entered a plea
of guilty or nolo contendere to,regardless of whether adjudication has been
withheld,a crime related to administration of a program authorized of the
provisions of ss.163.081-163.086 or a similar program in another jurisdic-
tion within the last 10 years.
(d)An annual performance review reveals a substantial violation or a
pattern of violations by the third-party administrator.
(5)Any recorded financing agreements at the time of termination or
suspension by the program administrator shall continue,except any
financing agreement for which the provisions of s.163.086 apply.
Section 6.Section 163.085,Florida Statutes,is created to read:
163.085 Advertisement and solicitation for financing qualifying im-
provements programs under s.163.081 or s.163.082.—
(1)When communicating with a property owner,a program adminis-
trator,qualifying improvement contractor,or third-party administrator may
not:
(a)Suggest or imply:
1.That a non-ad valorem assessment authorized under s.163.081 or s.
163.082 is a government assistance program;
2.That qualifying improvements are free or provided at no cost,or that
the financing related to a non-ad valorem assessment authorized under s.
163.081 or s.163.082 is free or provided at no cost;or
3.That the financing of a qualifying improvement using the program
authorized pursuant to s.163.081 or s.163.082 does not require repayment
of the financial obligation.
(b)Make any representation as to the tax deductibility of a non-ad
valorem assessment.A program administrator,qualifying improvement
contractor,or third-party administrator may encourage a property owner to
seek the advice of a tax professional regarding tax matters related to
assessments.
Ch.2024-273 LAWS OF FLORIDA Ch.2024-273
19
CODING:Words stricken are deletions;words underlined are additions.188
(2)A program administrator or third-party administrator may not
provide to a qualifying improvement contractor any information that
discloses the amount of financing for which a property owner is eligible
for qualifying improvements or the amount of equity in a residential
property or commercial property.
(3)A qualifying improvement contractor may not advertise the avail-
ability of financing agreements for,or solicit program participation on behalf
of,the program administrator unless the contractor is registered by the
program administrator to participate in the program and is in good standing
with the program administrator.
(4)A program administrator or third-party administrator may not
provide any payment,fee,or kickback to a qualifying improvement
contractor for referring property owners to the program administrator or
third-party administrator.However,a program administrator or third-party
administrator may provide information to a qualifying improvement
contractor to facilitate the installation of a qualifying improvement for a
property owner.
(5)A program administrator or third-party administrator may not
reimburse a qualifying improvement contractor for its expenses in advertis-
ing and marketing campaigns and materials.
(6)A qualifying improvement contractor may not provide a different
price for a qualifying improvement financed under s.163.081 than the price
that the qualifying improvement contractor would otherwise provide if the
qualifying improvement was not being financed through a financing
agreement.Any contract between a property owner and a qualifying
improvement contractor must clearly state all pricing and cost provisions,
including any process for change orders which meet the requirements of s.
163.081(3)(d).
(7)A program administrator,qualifying improvement contractor,or
third-party administrator may not provide any direct cash payment or other
thing of material value to a property owner which is explicitly conditioned
upon the property owner entering into a financing agreement.However,a
program administrator or third-party administrator may offer programs or
promotions on a nondiscriminatory basis that provide reduced fees or
interest rates if the reduced fees or interest rates are reflected in the
financing agreements and are not provided to the property owner as cash
consideration.
Section 7.Section 163.086,Florida Statutes,is created to read:
163.086 Unenforceable financing agreements for qualifying improve-
ments programs under s.163.081 or s.163.082;attachment;fraud.—
Ch.2024-273 LAWS OF FLORIDA Ch.2024-273
20
CODING:Words stricken are deletions;words underlined are additions.189
(1)A recorded financing agreement may not be removed from attach-
ment to a residential property or commercial property if the property owner
fraudulently obtained funding pursuant to s.163.081 or s.163.082.
(2)A financing agreement may not be enforced,and a recorded financing
agreement may be removed from attachment to a residential property or
commercial property and deemed null and void,if:
(a)The property owner applied for,accepted,and canceled a financing
agreement within the 3-business-day period pursuant to s.163.081(6).A
qualifying improvement contractor may not begin work under a canceled
contract.
(b)A person other than the property owner obtained the recorded
financing agreement.The court may enter an order which holds that person
or persons personally liable for the debt.
(c)The program administrator,third-party administrator,or qualifying
improvement contractor approved or obtained funding through fraudulent
means and in violation of ss.163.081-163.085,or this section for qualifying
improvements on the residential property or commercial property.
(3)If a qualifying improvement contractor has initiated work on
residential property or commercial property under a contract deemed
unenforceable under this section,the qualifying improvement contractor:
(a)May not receive compensation for that work under the financing
agreement.
(b)Must restore the residential property or commercial property to its
original condition at no cost to the property owner.
(c)Must immediately return any funds,property,and other considera-
tion given by the property owner.If the property owner provided any
property and the qualifying improvement contractor does not or cannot
return it,the qualifying improvement contractor must immediately return
the fair market value of the property or its value as designated in the
contract,whichever is greater.
(4)If the qualifying improvement contractor has delivered chattel or
fixtures to residential property or commercial property pursuant to a
contract deemed unenforceable under this section,the qualifying improve-
ment contractor has 90 days after the date on which the contract was
executed to retrieve the chattel or fixtures,provided that:
(a)The qualifying improvement contractor has fulfilled the require-
ments of paragraphs (3)(a)and (b).
(b)The chattel and fixtures can be removed at the qualifying improve-
ment contractor’s expense without damaging the residential property or
commercial property.
Ch.2024-273 LAWS OF FLORIDA Ch.2024-273
21
CODING:Words stricken are deletions;words underlined are additions.190
(5)If a qualifying improvement contractor fails to comply with this
section,the property owner may retain any chattel or fixtures provided
pursuant to a contract deemed unenforceable under this section.
(6)A contract that is otherwise unenforceable under this section remains
enforceable if the property owner waives his or her right to cancel the
contract or cancels the financing agreement pursuant to s.163.081(6)but
allows the qualifying improvement contractor to proceed with the installa-
tion of the qualifying improvement.
Section 8.Section 163.087,Florida Statutes,is created to read:
163.087 Reporting for financing qualifying improvements programs
under s.163.081 or s.163.082.—
(1)Each program administrator that is authorized to administer a
program for financing qualifying improvements to residential property or
commercial property under s.163.081 or s.163.082 shall post on its website
an annual report within 45 days after the end of its fiscal year containing the
following information from the previous year for each program authorized
under s.163.081 or s.163.082:
(a)The number and types of qualifying improvements funded.
(b)The aggregate,average,and median dollar amounts of annual non-ad
valorem assessments and the total number of non-ad valorem assessments
collected pursuant to financing agreements for qualifying improvements.
(c)The total number of defaulted non-ad valorem assessments,including
the total defaulted amount,the number and dates of missed payments,and
the total number of parcels in default and the length of time in default.
(d)A summary of all reported complaints received by the program
administrator related to the program,including the names of the third-party
administrator,if applicable,and qualifying improvement contractors and
the resolution of each complaint.
(2)The Auditor General must conduct an operational audit of each
program administrator authorized under s.163.081 or s.163.082,including
any third-party administrators,for compliance with the provisions of ss.
163.08-163.086 and any adopted ordinance at least once every 3 years.The
Auditor General may stagger evaluations;however,every program must be
evaluated at least once by September 1,2028.The Auditor General shall
adopt rules pursuant to s.218.39 requiring each program administrator to
report whether it offers a program authorized pursuant to s.163.081 or s.
163.082,and other pertinent information.Each program administrator and,
if applicable,third-party administrator,must post the most recent report on
its website.
Section 9.A current contract,agreement,authorization,or interlocal
agreement between a county or municipality and a program administrator
Ch.2024-273 LAWS OF FLORIDA Ch.2024-273
22
CODING:Words stricken are deletions;words underlined are additions.191
entered into before July 1,2024,shall continue without additional action by
the county or municipality.However,the program administrator must
comply with this act,and any contract,agreement,authorization,or
interlocal agreement must be amended to comply with this act.
Section 10.This act shall take effect July 1,2024.
Approved by the Governor June 28,2024.
Filed in Office Secretary of State June 28,2024.
Ch.2024-273 LAWS OF FLORIDA Ch.2024-273
23
CODING:Words stricken are deletions;words underlined are additions.192