Council will raise monthly property-tax payment option with Florence County after affordability concerns

Council Member Sullivan asked the council to pursue a discussion with Florence County about offering residents the option to make monthly payments toward property taxes rather than a single annual payment, citing rising costs of living and constituent hardship. "Property taxes are due once a year. The question was how could we go in and make a monthly payment towards property taxes?" she asked.

City staff and other council members clarified that the county treasurer—an elected constitutional officer—collects property taxes and that the city does not have unilateral authority to change collection policy. A city representative noted the enabling resolution states the treasurer shall collect taxes and impose penalties and interest in the same manner as ad valorem real property taxes, underscoring county authority over the schedule.

A meeting between city and county officials was reported by the clerk for April 24 at 2 p.m. to discuss possible options; council members agreed it was reasonable to sit down and explore alternatives such as installment plans, while acknowledging some county offices may be limited in what they can change without statutory adjustments.

Why it matters: Changes to tax-payment options affect household cash flow and may require intergovernmental coordination; members framed the proposal as a response to local affordability concerns.

What’s next: Council members agreed to discuss the matter further at a workshop and to follow up with county officials; no formal action was taken at this meeting.