Board members debate whether to opt in after new state law; seniors' exemptions emerge as concern

Board members discussed the choice they will face at a possible call meeting next week about whether Carroll County should opt in under recently passed state legislation referenced during the meeting.

Board member Bart described his personal situation and said his property taxes "exactly doubled in 10 years" and that the market value of his property rose by about 96% from 2019 to 2024. He said those increases influenced his inclination "to support opting in." The transcript records Bart saying, "I'm more leaning towards not just my own situation... I'm probably gonna vote for opting in."

Another board member expressed concerns about voter confusion, especially among senior citizens. The member said many seniors called asking whether the new measure would remove existing age‑65 exemptions and urged public education if the board requests residents to vote. She said many seniors "think that this is gonna take away their exemption that they have already being 65," and recommended outreach such as radio messaging and printed materials to clarify that the exemption for a primary residence would remain in place unless homeowners hold other properties.

Board members referenced outreach with state legislators: one member said Senator Matt Brass had reached out and that he planned to speak with the senator before Monday’s meeting. Another member noted media commentary by local election official Tyler Paul and a separate article referencing State Senator Hottstetler about systems opting out. The board agreed to monitor weather for the scheduled public hearing and possible call meeting and to reschedule if inclement weather prevents school operations.

The transcript records discussion and intent but does not show a formal board vote on the opt-in question at the January meeting.