Savannah council authorizes mayor to sign resolution opting city out of state homestead exemption (OCGA 48-5-44.2)

Mayor Johnson declared a public hearing open in February and, after hearing from residents, the Savannah City Council voted to authorize the mayor to sign a resolution indicating the city—s intention to opt out of the state—s version of the homestead exemption under OCGA 48-5-44.2.

The vote followed the council—s sixth public hearing on the issue. Mayor Johnson opened the meeting by saying, "I call this Savannah City Council public hearing to order today," and later declared, "I declare this public hearing open." After public comment and brief discussion, a councilmember moved to authorize the mayor to sign the resolution and the motion was seconded; council members voted "Aye," and the motion passed.

Why it matters: The opt-out vote signals the council—s preference to retain the locally applied "Stevens Day" exemption practice for Savannah homeowners rather than adopting the state's version described in OCGA 48-5-44.2. Speakers and council…