City staff brief aldermen on state proposals to phase out property taxes, potential special-district sales taxes

City staff briefed the Acworth Board of Aldermen on two state legislative measures under discussion that could transform local government finance if enacted: House Resolution 1114, a proposed constitutional amendment to eliminate property taxes statewide, and House Bill 116, implementing measures to replace lost property-tax revenue.

James Friedrich told aldermen the constitutional amendment concept would seek to eliminate property taxes by Jan. 1, 2032, subject to voter referenda, and that the enabling legislation (HB 116) would create mechanisms such as special-district sales taxes to fund services and capital projects and to provide targeted tax relief for homestead properties. Friedrich summarized one proposed trigger mechanism: if budgeted property-tax revenue growth exceeds 3% in a year, that increase would require approval by a local voter referendum.

Aldermen discussed procedural and substantive issues: the requirement to place a constitutional amendment before voters likely requires a two-thirds vote in both chambers, the timing and scope of any special-district sales taxes, and how consumption‑based revenue (sales taxes) could vary with economic cycles. Board members asked for links and more detailed summaries; staff offered to send GMA summaries and bill links to aldermen for follow-up.

What this means locally: Friedrich said the bills are in an early and evolving stage and that passage would require further legislative action. He cautioned that the measures would shift revenue authority and that local governments should expect both legal and budgetary changes if the measures progress.

Speakers quoted or referenced: James Friedrich (city staff), City Manager and multiple aldermen.