Fulton Officials Warn Against Proposal to Raise Homestead Exemption

February 25th, 2013

A bill making its way through the Georgia House has Fulton County officials concerned.

The legislation would give county voters the chance to dramatically lower their property tax bills.

House Bill 541 was introduced by State Representative Jan Jones (R – Milton). It would establish a November 2014 referendum so voters could decide whether to raise the county’s homestead exemption from $30,000 to $60,000.

If the referendum passes, Fulton officials say homeowners would save roughly $50 million in property taxes.

Fulton Chair John Eaves says it would be welcome relief for property owners, but county services would take a major hit.

“We will be less able to fund Grady Hospital, less able to keep libraries open. It means we have less ability to fund senior service centers, youth programs, and the court system,” said Eaves.

Eaves and several other commissioners are urging lawmakers to oppose the bill.

HB 541 has already been approved by a House committee but has yet to
be scheduled for a floor vote.