Business Expansion and Relocation
The expansion or relocation of a business can present a wide range of challenges and opportunities for those in the private sector and in government. Economic and regulatory issues routinely arise when a private company wants to expand its existing Florida facility or set up a new plant or office in the state. In today’s nationwide contest for new payrolls and more diverse local and regional economies, governments also may need professional assistance in shaping more compelling economic development policies or just landing that No. 1 prospect. We represent private companies as well as governmental entities in this area.
One of the first challenges for any business that is considering an expansion or relocation in Florida is to understand the financial implications of the potential move. Our lawyers can help analyze the costs and benefits of doing business in Florida through their complete understanding of ad valorem, corporate, intangible, sales and use taxes, and on the financial assistance available from state and local governments through tax incentives, including some that are available only if requested before the expansion or relocation decision is made. Our lawyers have assisted Fortune 100 and 500 companies in securing millions in long-term tax incentives for a Florida operation.
Business expansion or relocation also may trigger a variety of regulatory laws that protect land, air, water, wildlife and other resources. Our lawyers can help an expansion or relocation team understand the environmental and land use issues associated with a new or expanded facility, including the most cost-effective regulatory strategy. We also can assist clients in negotiating real estate transactions that involve contaminated sites and potential liability.
Further, we can suggest ways to get the speediest regulatory decisions for a capital project. We have been pioneers in the economic development field, and were called on by the Governor’s Office of Tourism, Trade and Economic Development (OTTED) to assist in designing and winning legislative approval for Florida’s 90-day expedited permitting law. We also have worked with local governments and private companies to secure the benefits of this fast-track permitting tool on a local basis.
Practicing Attorneys: Diane W. Carr and Vicki L. Weber.