Behind the Story

How Suncoast Searchlight Analyzed the Greenbelt Data

To better understand how developers in the region are leveraging a loophole in Florida's Greenbelt law, Suncoast Searchlight conducted a comprehensive analysis of business registries, property records, real estate deeds and tax bills.

02/28/2025 By Kara Newhouse/Suncoast Searchlight

Development

Sarasota, Bradenton Developers Score Big Tax Breaks with 'Rent-A-Cow' Loophole

Some of the region’s most active builders and developers used the loophole to deprive Sarasota and Manatee counties of at least $6.6 million in tax revenue last year alone, a Suncoast Searchlight investigation found.

02/28/2025 By Kara Newhouse/Suncoast Searchlight and Josh Salman/Suncoast Searchlight