Small Business Tax Relief Plan Adopted

The recently signed House Bill 7073 introduces several provisions aimed at supporting businesses and employees. One notable provision is a $5 million credit over three years against the corporate income tax for businesses hiring individuals with unique abilities, offering $1,000 per employee. Additionally, the bill includes a $5 million credit over three years to assist businesses with child care expenses for their employees. Moreover, the annual cap for the Strong Families Tax Credit Program has been raised from $20 million to $40 million. This program, initiated in 2021, incentivizes businesses to contribute to eligible charitable organizations focused on child welfare by providing tax credits.

For more information, click here.

Now Accepting Bids for Local Contractors

Central Florida Tourism Oversight District (formerly known as Reedy Creek Improvement District) competitively bids contracts for services and goods needed for construction, utilities services, maintenance (buildings, roads, bridges, landscaping, irrigation, etc.), professional services (engineering, legal, architectural, surveying, etc.) and supplies (construction materials, equipment, and consumables). The district supports local and veteran-owned businesses. All interested parties are encouraged to register to obtain invitations to networking events, and future bid opportunities.

Currently, there are $5.43M active projects including design engineering, milling & resurfacing pavement and drainage design. To obtain bid opportunities, click here.

OUC Proposes New Price Changes

Press release issued by OUC

OUC—The Reliable One will propose a new multi-year plan to empower customers with more choices and new opportunities to save money, better align costs equitably with how customers use electricity, and optimize OUC’s reliable, affordable and sustainable power grid. Pending OUC board approval, the program is designed to modernize OUC’s electric pricing structures. A public workshop will be held on 2 p.m., Thursday, June 13, 2024, at Reliable Plaza, located at 100 W Anderson St, Orlando, FL, 32801.

“Rapid population growth, increasing power demand, advancing customer-driven technologies and changing preferences are prompting utilities throughout the nation to implement similar pricing changes,” said Clint Bullock, OUC General Manager & CEO. “OUC must evolve to meet customer demand as we implement cost equity, preserve system reliability, and meet our CO2 reduction goals while delivering price signals that provide cost saving opportunities for customers.” 

Resources Available for 2nd Stage Companies

Second-stage companies, those with at least six employees and $750,000 in revenue, represent a vital segment of Florida's entrepreneurial landscape, accounting for 10% of companies, yet generating more than 30% of jobs.

GrowFL is dedicated to supporting and accelerating the growth of second-stage companies. Its targeted programs offer leaders access to vital resources, connections with industry peers, and expertise that foster continued prosperity.

Since its inception, GrowFL has facilitated the creation of more than 4,000 jobs and $2 billion in regional sales. For more information, contact Tammie Sweet at tsweet@growfl.com or (407) 498-5323.

Police Offer Free Business Consultations

Crime Prevention Through Environmental Design (CPTED) is a strategy to integrate design and functionality to diminish crime rates. The primary objective of CPTED is to reduce the opportunities for criminal activities by advocating for designs that foster secure and safe behaviors.

The St. Cloud Police Department's CRA officers are certified to offer expert consultation services in CPTED. Our officers will conduct a free comprehensive CPTED survey for businesses or residences. This survey will present a range of options to property owners, aimed at deterring.

For more information, click here or contact Sgt. Wayne Souza at 407-891-6765.

Local St. Cloud Businesses

If you haven't checked out the Experience Kissimmee website recently, you're missing out on a treasure trove of excitement! It's like a virtual adventure where St. Cloud shines like a dazzling diamond, flaunting our historic downtown with unique dining and shopping experiences, nostalgic murals, and toe-tapping live events. Dive into a world of wonder with articles uncovering the fascinating history of St. Cloud and its mesmerizing downtown murals, celebrating women-owned businesses, and tantalizing your taste buds with dining recommendations that will make your stomach do a happy dance! Don't walk, run to the Experience Kissimmee website and let the good times roll!