ALTAMONTE SPRINGS, Fla. – Following Longwood’s recent decision to maintain control over its local gas tax, Altamonte Springs is preparing to make a similar move.
On Tuesday, Altamonte Springs commissioners will deliberate on a proposed agreement with Seminole County regarding the division of local option fuel tax revenues.
This agreement aims to affirm that the city retains control over its fuel tax funds, ensuring they are not allocated or pledged to the county.
Local resident Dwayne Hardy, who lives near Cranes Roost Park, supports the initiative, stating it’s beneficial for the city.
“Considering the growth we’re experiencing here, it makes sense for Altamonte Springs to keep its tax dollars local,” Hardy remarked.
[WATCH: Seminole County commits $50 million to a new connector road linking SR 417 to the Sanford airport]
The vote comes as Seminole County has called for help to pay for a project that would link State Road 417 to the Orlando Sanford International Airport.
According to project leaders, the purpose of the road is to reduce congestion on East Lake Mary Boulevard and surrounding roadways, enhance access to commercial centers, and support long-term growth in the area.
Seminole County has agreed to pay $50 million toward the $200 million project.
County leaders have also asked Sanford, Oviedo, Winter Springs, and Lake Mary to contribute their local option fuel tax toward the two-mile connector road.
“If we pay to build a toll road, then we’re paying twice,” Hardy said. “Once to build it, and once to use it. I think that’s unfair.”
Altamonte Springs has not been asked to pay toward the project and has elected to retain its share of the fuel tax.
Commissioners are expected to vote on the measure during a meeting on Tuesday at 7 p.m.
