On behalf of the Board of Directors of the Malibu Association Realtors, Inc., I am expressing our opposition to the proposed business license program for the city of Malibu as drafted by the Business Roundtable Subcommittee.
We understand that the objective of the meeting on Friday, November 6 is to vote on a recommendation to the City Council. Our Board Director, Kathryn Yarnell, Realtor, who is a member of the Business Roundtable, will represent the association’s views on our behalf at this meeting.
Through the California Association of Realtors, we have reviewed a great deal of research which was conducted statewide in 1997 on local business license taxes and its impact on local communities. The research indicates that many local governments have struggled to raise sufficient revenue to provide essential services. In the midst of this struggle, they often turn to methods and practices that are injurious to the real estate industry, business community and private property rights.
For the record, we oppose the proposed $50.00 annual fee for businesses either located in Malibu or located elsewhere and doing business in Malibu and the $25.00 annual fee for home-based businesses.
The above letter was sent to Mark Ball, chairman, Business Roundtable. We encourage all community members to voice your feelings by attending the meeting on Friday, Nov. 6 at 7:30 a.m. or contacting him by phone to express your views.
Beverly Taki, president
Malibu Association of Realtors, Inc.