LONGWOOD, Fla. – The City of Longwood is taking up a measure to keep tax dollars local.
In a meeting on Monday, commissioners will vote on an agreement between Longwood and Seminole County about the distribution of local option fuel tax proceeds.
The measure would clarify that the city has not assigned or pledged its fuel tax revenues to the county and retains authority over the use of those funds.
The decision 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.
Longwood has not been asked to pay toward the project and has elected to retain its statutory share.
According to the city manager, the agreement provides clarity to both parties and the Department of Revenue regarding the city’s position.
Commissioners are expected to vote on the measure during a meeting on Monday at 6 p.m.