Residents voice concerns over soaring property tax hikes in Rockdale County

The recent Board of Education hearings and work session held by Rockdale County Public Schools on February 13, 2025, highlighted significant concerns regarding rising property taxes and their impact on the community, particularly for seniors. The discussions underscored the tension between funding public education and the financial burdens placed on homeowners.

One resident, expressing frustration over escalating taxes, noted that his property taxes have increased by $3,500 since 2019, reaching a total of $7,500. He emphasized that despite never having children in the school district, he feels the weight of these financial demands. His call for a clearer return on investment for seniors resonated with many attendees, as he questioned the sustainability of such steep tax hikes, which he described as "unsustainable." He urged the school board to adopt more creative fiscal strategies rather than relying solely on tax increases.

Another speaker, Phyllis Morris Samuels, raised concerns about the perception that school funding should come at the expense of administrative costs. She pointed out that while property taxes are rising, the performance of schools has not improved, suggesting a disconnect between funding and educational outcomes. Samuels also expressed a desire for more transparency and planning regarding future tax assessments, advocating for a stable tax rate that would allow residents to budget effectively.

Pastor Eric Lee, representing a long-standing community institution, criticized House Bill 581, which he described as poorly constructed and divisive. He argued that the legislation creates a false dichotomy between funding education and supporting vulnerable populations, such as seniors. Lee's remarks emphasized the need for a balanced approach that does not pit community needs against one another.

The meeting revealed a community grappling with the implications of rising taxes and the perceived lack of accountability in how those funds are utilized. As Rockdale County continues to grow, residents are calling for more strategic planning to address overcrowding in schools and ensure that all community members, especially seniors, are considered in financial decisions. The discussions from this meeting will likely influence future policy decisions as the school board seeks to navigate these complex issues.