Setting the record straight on Florida PACE

Outlined below are inaccuracies in your recent editorial, “Moran, tax collectors in a Supreme Court fight” published June 27.

Misleading practices and tax bills

The article stated “tax collectors have sued Florida PACE, alleging PACE’s lending practices are misleading, often resulting in large increases in property tax bills and assessments that surprise homeowners and, in many cases, also have resulted in long-term tax liens being placed on homes.”

It’s important to clarify that Florida PACE Funding Agency ensures transparency through a recorded confirmation call where all terms are reviewed with the homeowner. This process includes multiple levels of affirmation to ensure understanding. Homeowners have the option to have another person on the call with them for support.

PACE Lending Program vs. FPFA

The article uses PACE and FPFA/Florida PACE interchangeably. FPFA is one PACE provider among several. It’s crucial to differentiate between the broader PACE program and FPFA’s specific operations.

Contractors misleading homeowners

The article said: “Tax collectors opposed to this have argued” … that the program’s contractors often have misled homeowners. 

FPFA does not assign contractors and does not have any affiliation with contractors. Licensed contractors (licensed by Florida's Construction Industry Licensing Board) are approved to work with PACE clients. Homeowners select their own contractors after being approved for funding by FPFA, maintaining full control over this process.

In the PACE program, the contractor selected by the property owner agrees not to receive payment until the property owner is entirely satisfied. This stringent consumer protection measure sets PACE apart from other financing options.

Unfortunately, there have been cases where Florida PACE’s logo has been used by contractors on their advertisements. FPFA sues anyone who is illegally using their logos in a predatory manner. 

Equating Mike Moran with FPFA

The article suggests that Mike Moran is personally suing tax collectors, stating “Moran and PACE also sued the collectors…” and referring to FPFA as “his” agency. It’s important to clarify that Mr. Moran as the executive director represents FPFA. The lawsuits and press releases are issued by FPFA, not Mr. Moran personally.

— Florida PACE Program