Fulton County residents have three more chances to comment on a proposed 17 percent property tax increase, with the first two chances coming Wednesday. Here’s what you need to know.
The tax hike: The Fulton Board of Commissioners proposed the 17 percent tax hike to pay for countywide services like libraries, courts and social services. The tax hike would cost the owner of a $275,000 home an extra $140 a year if the property's value remains unchanged. But with property values rising in some areas, the tax hike could be steeper. A 10 percent increase in value, combined with the tax hike, would cost that same owner of that $275,000 house an extra $270 a year.
What they're saying: Supporters say the proposed tax increase and budget cuts approved earlier this year are needed to balance Fulton's $625.4 million general fund budget. Without the tax hike, they say, steeper cuts will be needed. Opponents say the proposal violates a tax cap imposed on Fulton County by the General Assembly last year. They say the county should cut spending and live within its means, rather than raise taxes.
Have your say: Few people attended public hearings on the proposal earlier this month, but Fulton has scheduled several more. Hearings are set for 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. Wednesday and 10 a.m. Aug. 6 at the Fulton County Government Center Assembly Hall, 141 Pryor St. SW, Atlanta. Residents also can participate via videoconference at the North Fulton Service Center, 7741 Roswell Road, Sandy Springs, and the South Fulton Service Center, 5600 Stonewall Tell Road, College Park.
Final decision next week: Commissioners are expected to approve the new tax rate at the Aug. 6 meeting. They can approve a tax rate lower than the one advertised, but not a higher one.
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