City Budget Receives $6M Revenue Estimate Amid Property Tax Clarifications

In a recent government meeting in Stonecrest, DeKalb County, officials discussed the city's property tax revenue and its implications for residents. The key takeaway was a projected revenue increase of approximately $6.07 million for the year, contingent on full compliance with property tax payments—a scenario that rarely occurs, with actual payment rates typically around 75%.

City leaders clarified that the current property tax rate of 1.257 mils has remained unchanged for the past four years, emphasizing that any perceived increase in taxes is largely a result of rising property values rather than a hike in the tax rate itself. They noted that the law mandates specific language in tax notices, which can sometimes create confusion among residents regarding the term "increase."

The discussion highlighted that the city relies heavily on property taxes, generating only $2 million from this source out of a $17 million budget, with the majority of revenue coming from business-related taxes. Officials indicated that rolling back the tax rate is unlikely, as it would drop below the critical threshold of 1 mil, which they deemed unsustainable for city operations.

For homeowners, the financial impact of the current tax rate remains minimal. For example, a home valued at $300,000 with a homestead exemption would see an increase of just $2.37, while a non-homestead property valued at $500,000 would incur a $3.33 increase. Officials reassured residents that the primary pressure on their property tax bills stems from county and school board taxes, not from the city of Stonecrest itself.

As the city navigates its budget and tax structure, officials urged residents to focus on the numbers rather than the terminology, ensuring clarity in understanding how these financial decisions affect their community.