Clay County Residents Question Trim Notices and Solid Waste Assessment Procedures

During the Clay County Board of County Commissioners meeting on August 26, 2025, a significant discussion arose regarding the inclusion of solid waste assessments on the Truth in Millage (TRIM) notices sent to residents. Property Appraiser Tracy Drake addressed concerns raised by residents about the absence of these assessments on their recent TRIM notices. He explained that while some counties include this information, it has traditionally been discretionary in Clay County. Drake assured the board that he would work towards including these assessments in the notices for the 2026 tax year, which would help residents better budget for their expenses.

The conversation highlighted the importance of clear communication regarding tax assessments, especially for residents on fixed incomes who rely on accurate information to manage their finances. One resident had specifically reached out to inquire about the solid waste assessment, emphasizing the need for transparency in local government dealings.

In addition to the discussion on TRIM notices, the meeting included a public comment period where residents voiced their opinions on various topics. Teresa Sande passionately expressed her views on political labels and the importance of compassion and justice in governance. She highlighted the contributions of liberal policies to social welfare and criticized the current political climate for its divisiveness. Another resident, Mary Jo Griffin, shared a poetic reflection on the potential for America to be a land of promise, urging for justice and equity.

The meeting concluded with the approval of previous minutes, and the board encouraged residents to continue engaging with their local government through public comments and inquiries. The discussions from this meeting underscore the ongoing efforts of Clay County officials to enhance communication with residents and address their concerns effectively.