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Several newspapers around the state are pouring cold water on the property tax plan passed by lawmakers and championed by Governor Charlie Crist. Florida Taxwatch, a non profit government watchdog is also piling on, saying the plan passed Monday does little to help those who need help the most. Harvey Bennett of Taxwatch says if there was real relief, it would have gone to renters, second home owners, and businesses.

“The legislature is trying to do something to save face. They’re trying to do something to appeal to the voters of the state, the homeowners who have somewhat of a problem in the property tax system but a very minor problem compared to the majority of property owners who are really suffering under our two separate but unequal property tax systems that we have in Florida.”

So they’re trying to be popular?

“They’re trying to be popular. And popular is not necessarily right.”

Taxwatch consistently told lawmakers during the debate that they were hitting the wrong target, but their advice fell on deaf ears.