A tax dispute in Port St. Lucie has put the Veranda Gardens neighborhood’s clubhouse at risk, following an error by a city contractor. The issue centers on a special assessment that was initially removed, then later reinstated, leading to significant financial concerns for the homeowners association. For residents wanting to understand the broader context of local taxation, reviewing five key facts about St. Lucie County property tax can provide valuable insight.

Port St. Lucie Tax Dispute Stems From Engineering Error

The Port St. Lucie tax dispute began when a consultant engineer working for the city agreed that the Veranda Gardens clubhouse property should not be subject to a special assessment. According to city officials, this decision led to the removal of the assessment and a refund issued by the St. Lucie County Tax Collector’s Office.

However, the situation changed when the consultant engineer reversed the decision in June 2022. According to Scott Samples, strategic communications manager for the City of Port St. Lucie, the engineer determined that the original exemption was incorrect. The special assessment was then reinstated on the property, as agreed upon by the developer in 2015.

Homeowners Association Faces Unexpected Financial Burden

Kelly Finn, president of the Veranda Gardens homeowners association, said the community was unaware of the reinstated assessment until receiving a notice from the tax collector about unpaid bills. According to Finn, the association had documentation from the city stating that future assessments would be removed and previous payments refunded.

Records obtained from the St. Lucie County Tax Collector confirm that a refund was issued and that the original exemption was granted due to the property being entered in error. Finn explained that the exemption was based on state law, which prohibits assessments on common elements within residential subdivisions. For further insight into why property taxes are high in St. Lucie County, it’s helpful to examine the underlying causes and policies affecting local homeowners.

Florida Law on Common Elements and Assessments

According to Florida Statutes, “ad valorem taxes and non-ad valorem assessments shall be assessed against the lots within a platted residential subdivision and not upon the subdivision property as a whole.” The law further states that assessments may not be imposed separately on common elements used exclusively by lot owners, regardless of ownership.

Common elements are defined as properties used for at least 10 years for the benefit of lot owners, not intended for private ownership, and either dedicated to the public or retained for the subdivision’s benefit. This includes areas such as drainage or retention ponds.

Potential Loss of Clubhouse and Legal Action

After the assessment was reinstated, Finn said the association received new bills totaling approximately $100,000. She described the financial impact as a “hidden burden” on the community. The association is now consulting with attorneys and preparing to take legal action against the City of Port St. Lucie.

Finn expressed frustration with the city’s response, stating that officials have not provided clear answers or solutions. She reported that meetings with city personnel have not resolved the matter, and communication has been limited to written responses.

City of Port St. Lucie Responds to Assessment Dispute

The City of Port St. Lucie declined to provide on-camera interviews regarding the Veranda Gardens situation. In a written statement, Scott Samples emphasized that the charges in question are not taxes but special assessments. He stated that the city became aware of the issue in February 2025 and is working with the homeowners association to reach a resolution.

According to official sources, the city is reviewing the circumstances and the consultant engineer’s decision. Details may be updated as the investigation continues.

Timeline of the Port St. Lucie Tax Dispute

• January 2022: City requests removal of future assessments and refund for past payments from the St. Lucie County Tax Collector’s Office.
• June 2022: Consultant engineer reverses decision, reinstates special assessment on the clubhouse property.
• February 2025: City acknowledges the issue and begins working with the homeowners association.

Impact on Veranda Gardens Residents

The unexpected assessment has raised concerns among Veranda Gardens residents about the future of their clubhouse and the financial stability of the community. The association is actively seeking legal counsel and exploring options to challenge the city’s actions. Notably, Port St. Lucie has recently lowered its tax rate in response to rising homeowner costs, which may influence how such disputes are addressed in the future.

According to Finn, the lack of clear communication from city officials has added to residents’ frustration and uncertainty. The outcome of the dispute may set a precedent for how similar cases are handled in St. Lucie County and other Florida communities.

Frequently Asked Questions About Port St. Lucie Tax Dispute

What caused the Port St. Lucie tax dispute with Veranda Gardens?

The dispute began after a city contractor’s error led to the removal and later reinstatement of a special assessment on the Veranda Gardens clubhouse, according to official sources.

How much is the special assessment in question?

The new bills total around $100,000 for the Veranda Gardens homeowners association, based on information provided by the association president.

Are special assessments the same as property taxes in Port St. Lucie?

No, according to the City of Port St. Lucie, these are special assessments, not property taxes. Special assessments are charges for specific services or improvements, separate from regular taxes.

Can homeowners associations in PSL challenge special assessments?

Yes, homeowners associations can seek legal advice and challenge assessments if they believe the charges are not valid under Florida law or local regulations.

Where are details about the Port St. Lucie tax dispute available?

Official information can be obtained from the City of Port St. Lucie and the St. Lucie County Tax Collector’s Office. Updates may be provided as the investigation continues.

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