Newton County Board Discusses Tax Revenue Limits Due to House Bill 581 Impact

The Newton County Board of Commissioners held a public hearing on July 29, 2025, to discuss the proposed millage rate for the upcoming year. The meeting highlighted concerns regarding the impact of House Bill 581, which limits the revenue that the county can collect to fund essential services such as road repairs, law enforcement, and fire services.

Commissioners emphasized the need to balance the budget while ensuring that taxpayers receive the services they deserve. The current millage rate is set to increase from 8.2% to 8.6%, a change that officials believe is necessary to maintain service levels. This increase comes after a significant reduction from a previous rate of 13.44% in 2019, showcasing the board's efforts to provide tax relief over the years.

During the meeting, it was noted that the local school board's millage rate is significantly higher, accounting for 59% of the total taxes collected in the county. This disparity has raised concerns among commissioners, who encouraged community members to engage with school board meetings to advocate for senior citizens and other taxpayers.

Commissioner Long, who has a background in real estate, pointed out that while property taxes are rising, property values have also increased significantly, with some areas seeing growth of 8 to 10% over the past three years. He urged residents to review their property assessments for accuracy, as discrepancies could lead to higher taxes than warranted.

The meeting concluded with a call for community involvement in local governance, particularly regarding the school board's tax decisions. The commissioners reiterated their commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility as they navigate the challenges posed by changing legislation and rising property values.