Biblical parks may get tax deal

[dogday]

So far, just one attraction in Orlando would benefit from a Senate bill exempting it from local property taxes.

By JENNIFER LIBERTO, Times Staff Writer
Published April 6, 2006

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TALLAHASSEE - A biblical theme park in Orlando where guests pay $30 admission to munch on "Goliath" burgers and explore reproductions of 2000-year-old tombs and temples could get a property tax exemption written into state law.

A Senate committee easily passed a bill that would grant theme parks "used to exhibit, illustrate, and interpret biblical manuscripts ... " an exemption from local property taxes, like churches, even though the parks charge money.

The legislation is designed to resolve a tax dispute between Holy Land Experience and the Orange County property appraiser, but legislative staffers say the exemption could encourage the development of other parks to take advantage of the tax break.

The 15-acre Orlando park recently won its challenge against Orange County, which has appealed the case. The nonprofit, which would owe about $300,000 in property taxes each year, argued that the park helps finance its Christian ministry.

http://www.sptimes.com/2006/04/06/news_pf/State/Biblical_parks_may_ge.shtml

[mzteris]

1. BULLSH*T

Of course, I don't think churches should be tax exempt anymore either..... but a "bible fun park"?

Gimme a break!

(Didn't they read the one about Jesus throwing out the moneygrubbers from the Temple?)

[dogday]

2. If they are making a profit

they should be treated like everyone else....

[Ian David]

3. WiccaWorld and Satan's Island coming soon? Anyone wanna invest? n/t

[adriennui]

4. this is a crock of turd

why tax breaks. someone would think we're living in a theocracy.

[Flying Dream Blues]

5. So it's a non-profit theme park? RIIIIIIIGHT.