Fulton tax hike takes step forward

The Fulton County Board of Commissioners Wednesday formally proposed a 17 percent property tax increase – the first countywide tax hike in 23 years.

By a vote of 5-2, commissioners agreed to advertise the new tax rate, which would cost the owner of a $275,000 house an extra $140 a year. They also scheduled public hearings on the proposal for July 9 and July 16. A final vote on the tax rate also would come July 16.

The proposal defies a state law that prohibits Fulton County from raising its property tax rate until next year, and opponents have pledged to challenge it in court. County officials say the General Assembly overstepped its legal authority when it approved the tax cap.