Annexation

Frequently Asked Questions:
Q.	What is "Annexation?"
A.	Annexation is defined as "the adding of real property to the boundaries of an incorporated municipality, such addition making such real property in every way a part of the municipality." Annexations must be within municipality’s reserve area, if one is established; not create an enclave; be contiguous to the city limits; and be reasonably compact. The Alachua County Boundary Adjustment Act governs annexation policies in Alachua County. Unincorporated property can be annexed into a municipality through "voluntary" and "referendum" annexations.
Q.	What are the benefits of “annexation” into the City of Gainesville?
A.	Greater Representation City of Gainesville residents have the distinct privilege of voting both in City and County elections. They are able to vote in elections for the mayor and for city commissioners. Because commissioners also serve as the Board of Directors for Gainesville Regional Utilities, residents can voice their concerns regarding the provision of utility service through the exercise of their vote. City residents are also eligible to run for seats on the city commission and for appointment to various city boards ranging from historic preservation to city planning. Area neighborhoods can join Advisory Boards which advise the City Commission on residential issues. Click here to view existing Advisory Board/Committee Information. Enhanced Bus Service The Regional Transit System takes people to work, school, and play daily. And while it’s the only option for some, for many it’s a chosen alternative to driving. In 2005, RTS provided over 8 million rides in the urbanized area of Gainesville. Reduced traffic congestion and air emissions, greater interaction with the community, and saving money on automotive expenses are just a few of the benefits of riding the bus that Gainesville residents can enjoy. Click here to visit the RTS website. Community Policing The Gainesville Police Department is proud to follow a community oriented approach to policing. The community policing model balances reactive responses to calls for service with proactive problem-solving centered on the causes of crime and disorder. Citizens and police officers mutually identify problems in the community and work together to create viable solutions. City residents also benefit from an effective and streamlined noise ordinance. GPD protects the quality of life for Gainesville citizens by educating the public about noise violations and strictly enforcing the ordinance. Repeat violators are fined up to $500 under the ordinance. Examples of violations include loud parties, nighttime construction and loud car stereos. City of Gainesville patrol zones are less than 4 square miles in size. This enables law enforcement to provide rapid response in times of need. Click here to read what people from past annexation areas are saying about the Gainesville Police Department. Solid Waste The Solid Waste Division is responsible for coordinating the City's trash, yard waste, and recycling programs as well as sponsoring environmentally-friendly cleanup projects in the Gainesville community. Services include once a week household garbage pickup, once a week curbside recycling pickup, on call bulky item (junk) pickup, and unlimited yard waste pickup. Click here to learn more about our Curbside Collection Program. Stormwater Management, Streets & Drainage Gainesville's Stormwater Management program provides street sweeping 6 to 8 times a year in order to reduce the build up of debris in drainage systems; mosquito control; regulation, maintenance and operation of stormwater management systems; floodplain management program to maintain eligibility in the Federal Flood Insurance program, and implementation of capital improvement and restoration plans to improve impaired waters in our urban streams and water bodies. Click here to learn more about the maintenance of City roadways, stormwater management facilities and sidewalks. Increased Code Enforcement The City of Gainesville Code Enforcement Division embraces the concept of community oriented code enforcement and its codes address minimum housing standards that promote safe, adequate housing. Each neighborhood has access to a code officer that utilizes City codes to regulate essential components of dwellings such as adequate heat, sanitary plumbing systems, safe electrical systems and structurally sound buildings. Codes also establish yard maintenance guidelines that include removal of non-operational vehicles, proper yard drainage, trash removal, and maximum grass heights. Typically, code enforcement complaints are dealt with in 48 hours of the initial complaint. Click here for guidelines. Neighborhood Beautification The City of Gainesville is committed to safe and beautiful streets. Recognized as an official Tree City USA© community for over 20 years, we annually plant a thousand trees on streets and give away hundreds more to citizens for planting around their homes. Gainesville residents also enjoy community gardens, neighborhood green spaces set aside for local residents to grow their own fresh vegetables, herbs, fruits, and flowers. The program mission is to assist neighborhoods and community organizations in the creation, operation, and maintenance of these gardens: to improve public nutrition and the neighborhood environment; to increase opportunities for healthful outdoor recreation, practical education, and positive social interaction; and to build community self-reliance and sustainability. Click here to read about our City Beautification Board. Recreation and Parks City of Gainesville’s Recreation & Parks Division advocates the importance of thriving, local park systems, and the opportunity for all citizens to lead healthy, active lifestyles. City of Gainesville residents enjoy reduced rates at our municipal pools, golf course, camps and after-school programs, recreation centers, and leisure programs ranging from tai chi to chess. Click here for the latest news and program offerings.
Q.	How does the City benefit from annexation?
A.	Annexation increases a city's size and population, raising its level of political influence, its prestige and its ability to attract desirable commercial development. It may also increase its ability to attract grant assistance. State Revenue Sharing funds are allocated on the basis of population to counties and cities. The formula for distribution to cities relies more heavily on population. That means more funding from the State actually comes to the community. Opportunities for savings or cost-avoidance are available through reduced duplication of services and economies of scale.
Q.	How does "annexation" occur?
A.	There are two main ways in which unincorporated property can be annexed into a municipality; "voluntary" and "referendum" annexations. Voluntary annexation occurs as follows: A property owner or owners submits a petition to annex into a Municipality. The Municipality adopts an Urban Services Report (USR). The report states to what extent services to existing residents would need to be reduced within next 5 years because of the annexation; to what extent taxes would need to be adjusted within 5 years to provide services to area to be annexed; and to what extent the area to be annexed would be developed for urban purposes. The report is filed with the County and the property owner. The property owner has 20 days after receipt of the USR to withdraw the petition for annexation. The Municipality advertises with a map in a local newspaper. The Municipality adopts the annexation ordinance (2 readings). The Annexation becomes effective when adopted. Annexation by referendum occurs as follows: The Municipality proposes the area to be annexed and prepares an Urban Services Report. The report is adopted by ordinance and filed with the County. The Municipality adopts an annexation ordinance and sets an election date. A regular or special election can be held, not sooner than 90 days or later than 180 days from adoption of the annexation ordinance. The Annexation is advertised in newspaper. Registered voters of the proposed area have the opportunity to vote on the proposed annexation. A simple majority (50% plus one vote) prevails. If passed, the annexation takes effect on date specified (within 1 year of the referendum). If failed or tied, Municipality shall not propose annexation in same exact area for 2 Years.
Q.	Annexation History By Type
A.	Click here to view the Annexation History By Type Map from our GIS Map Library. Print size:(11"x8.5") File size:(1,232KB)
Q.	Annexation History By Year
A.	Click here to view the Annexation History By Year Map from our GIS Map Library. Print size:(11"x8.5") File size:(800KB)