A group identifying themselves as “Concerned Citizens of Ann Arbor” in Bokeelia has contacted The News-Press about a possible homestead fraud in their community. Linda Anderson at the Lee County Property Appraiser’s Office has agreed to investigate the claims.
Many people have wondered what process the appraiser’s office uses to investigate homestead fraud. Anderson has told me her office begins investigations most often based on tips — usually an unhappy neighbor.
The e-mail sent by Anderson to the “Concerned Citizens of Ann Arbor” gives some insight into how the investigations are conducted.
From: Anderson, Linda
Sent: Wednesday, November 18, 2009 12:11 PM
To: xxx
Cc: xxx
Subject: RE: Homestead Inquiry
Thank you for your concern with regard to possible exemption non-compliance at 5535 Ann Arbor Drive. We have continuously reviewed this parcel, as far back as 2005. The property owners have been in contact with our office regarding forwarded mail and complaints that they do not qualify for exemption.
The requirement of permanent residency (and the appraiser’s determination thereof) is based on many factors, not any one of them conclusive of the establishment or non-establishment of permanent residence, together, they do “paint a picture”.
Elyse Gray does not qualify as a Florida resident at this time, however, based on the qualifications, Driver’s license, voter registration, vehicle tag, Donald Gray appears to qualify. We are in the process of requesting documentation regarding some of the other items that can be reviewed to determine eligibility, tax returns, etc.
It is been the experience of this office that utility bills do not prove or disprove permanent residence, addresses on bank statements also would not prove residency, but would certainly help support it.
The fact that a person may be in the Florida residence only temporarily does not disqualify them from being a Florida resident. It is sometimes quite difficult to prove the “honest intent” of a taxpayer. We will look into employment and federal tax return filing to see if the IRS filing supports Florida residency for the past 10 years and go from there. At this point, the exemption is cancelled effective Jan 1, 2010.
Please keep in touch with our office regarding this issue.
Sincerely,
Linda Anderson
Lee County Property Appraiser’s Office
– Ryan Lengerich
