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STARTING A BUSINESS ON SOUTH PADRE ISLAND
For the most current and up-to-date revenue figures, labor data and population
trends go to www.southpadreislandedc.com. To learn more about required permits
and city ordinances regarding the start-up of a new business or the purchase of an
existing business, go to www.myspi.org or contact the City of South Padre Island
Development office at 956.761.8113.

South Padre Island Economic Facts

GOVERNMENT
South Padre Island is a council-manager form of government, which consists of the
Mayor and five City Councilmen, all elected. They in turn hire a City Manager.
The City Council meets the first and third Wednesday of each month. For more
information go to www.myspi.org. Cameron County operates with five elected
Commissioners, who meet every Tuesday afternoon to manage county affairs. For
more information go to www.co.cameron.tx.us.
TAXES
The State of Texas has no State income tax and allows for local tax incentives and
exemptions from State sales tax. Local taxing discounts include a $15,000 home-
stead exemption, and a 20% exemption on both the Laguna Madre Water District
and City of South Padre Island taxes. Cameron County offers a $12,000 exemption
to taxpayers over the age of 65. Ad valorem taxes are assessed and collected by
Cameron County. The City of South Padre Island has a 8.25% sales tax ( ⁄2% to
1
Economic Development, 1 ⁄2% to City of SPI and 6 ⁄4% to State of Texas), and a 17%
1
1
Hotel/Motel Tax (6% to State of Texas, of which 1% is returned to the City for
beach renourishment, 8.5% to the Convention and Visitors Bureau, 2% for City
Venue projects, and 0.5% to Cameron County for County Venue projects). For
information on property taxes, contact the Cameron County Appraisal District at
956.399.9322 or visit their website at www.cameroncad.org
UTILITIES
Water and sewer needs for South Padre Island residents and businesses are man-
aged by Laguna Madre Water District (956.943.2626), waste disposal is provided
by Republic Services (800.423.7316) and cable service is provided by Spectrum
Cable (800.222.5355). Electrical service can be obtained from several suppliers
(www.powertochoose.org), and land line telecommunication service is also avail-
able through multiple companies (www.connectmyphone.com). South Padre
Island is serviced by numerous internet provider companies. Check with your
current carrier regarding availability and options. J
Captain Bryan Ray

Fishing Adventures

CAPT. BRYAN RAY

State Water Snapper Fishing is
FISHING Open Year Round!

956-433-6469
www.fishingadventuresspi.com
Facebook.com/FishingAdventuresSPI

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