Albany and Dougherty County Push for Urgent Sales Tax Relief
UPDATE: Albany and Dougherty County are taking immediate action to address property tax relief through a new sales tax proposal. The city and county are discussing a floating special-purpose local-option sales tax (F-SPLOST) aimed at reducing property tax bills for residents. Tax bills, which are typically mailed in November, have been delayed and are expected to arrive by December 26, 2023.
This new sales tax initiative is a response to the highest millage rate in the state for residents in unincorporated Dougherty County, as confirmed by Phil Sutton, program manager at Rochester & Associates. Residents could see significant tax reductions: a full penny in FLOST relief could lower property taxes on a $150,000 home by 33%, from $1,695 to $1,132 for unincorporated areas, and from $1,784 to $1,192 for Albany residents.
The Dougherty County School Board opted out of the F-SPLOST, but the city of Albany is actively considering a half-cent sales tax to fund a proposed conference center. This would limit the total sales tax in the county to 9%, with the remaining half-cent dedicated to property tax relief. County Commissioner Russell Gray highlighted that such tax relief could stabilize rents and stimulate interest in housing, impacting the local economy and residents alike.
Taxpayers should be aware that the delayed mailing of tax bills is due to the implementation of the new tax-relief legislation and advertising mix-ups. Tax Director Shonna Josey confirmed that bills will be sent out by December 26, and taxpayers can still make online payments to secure federal deductions before the January 1 deadline.
Local governments plan to discuss their service delivery strategy to ensure efficient services while maximizing tax relief benefits for residents. If consensus is reached on the penny allocation by the week of February 2, this issue could appear on the ballot for voters on May 19, coinciding with statewide elections.
Sutton also noted that out-of-town visitors would contribute to property tax relief, as 40% of sales tax revenue comes from outside the community, providing a unique opportunity for local taxpayers. This is a critical moment for residents, as the proposed F-SPLOST could deliver much-needed financial relief amid rising living costs.
As discussions progress, residents are encouraged to stay informed and engage in the upcoming public meetings. The outcome of these deliberations could have lasting effects on the financial landscape for Albany and Dougherty County residents.
