Fitzgerald Featured as Financial Expert on ABC Interview
February 21, 2007 – Orlando, Fla. – Charles Fitzgerald, III, Certified Financial Planner and principal of financial planning and wealth management firm, Spraker, Fitzgerald, Tamayo & Moisand, appeared on ABC’s Orlando-based news affiliate, WFTV Channel 9. Earlier today Florida House Speaker Marco Rubio set forth a proposal to eliminate the property tax on all Florida homestead properties while increasing the state sales tax by 2.5 percentage points. The measure will offered to Florida residents in a special election in 2007. The interview included footage of others that could be affected by the change. A young Orlando woman renter felt that the sales tax increase would only increase her cost of living because there weren't any assurances that her rent would decrease. Fitzgerald served as a financial and tax expert to Greg Warmoth who produced the story.
"There is no doubt that the current property tax system here in Florida is broken. The dramatic increase in property values over the last five years has exposed the weakness of the "Save Our Homes" tax cap. Many homeowners across the State, with similar homes, are now paying highly disproportionate taxes for the same government services. Most homeowners will favor the elimination of the property tax for the sales tax increase. What most don't understand is that the sales tax is a regressive tax which shifts the tax burden to low income households. In general, Florida residents will benefit because the tax would also be paid by tourists and non-Florida residents. The proposed caps for local government spending, as presented in the bill, could also help keep our taxes down. If you want more information on the proposed bill please go to www.myfloridahouse.gov. Florida Tax Watch also has an excellent write up and alternative recommendation on their website www.floridataxwatch.org ."
Charles E. Fitzgerald, III specializes in retirement planning and investment services to corporate employees, business owners, trustees and retirees. Charlie is the 2007 President of the Financial Planning Association of Florida. His advice and view points have been featured on NBC Channel 2, ABC Channel 9, USA Today, Financial Planning Magazine, the Orlando Sentinel and as a co-host on AM 580 WDBO.
About Spraker, Fitzgerald, Tamayo & Moisand, LLC
Spraker, Fitzgerald, Tamayo & Moisand, LLC offers comprehensive wealth management services to corporate executives, professionals, business owners, and other high net worth individuals. The firm, registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, utilizes a unique team approach in analysis and planning of their clients investment portfolios. Services include estate planning, investment management, cash flow and income tax strategies and retirement planning. The firm operates out of offices located in Maitland and Melbourne and can be reached at 407-869-6228 or online at www.SprakerFitzgerald.com.