Statham City holds second hearing on proposed senior homestead exemption

Statham City held a second public hearing on Dec. 2, 2025, on a proposed local homestead exemption that would reduce municipal taxable assessed value by $20,000 for homeowners age 62 and $30,000 for homeowners age 67.

City staff explained how the exemption would work, who is eligible and how to apply. To qualify, homeowners must be on the deed, claim the property as their primary residence, and meet the age threshold by Jan. 1 of the tax year; applications are submitted once (deadline typically March 31). Staff provided a calculation example showing a home with a $255,000 fair-market value (40% assessed at $102,000) would see municipal tax due fall from $665 to $532 under the $20,000 exemption, a savings of about $133 a year for a 62‑year‑old homeowner, with larger savings once the $30,000 exemption applies at age 67, according to the presenter (City staff member (homestead presenter)).

The presenter emphasized that, if the council approves a local exemption, state law requires the city to submit it to the Georgia legislature for final action; the exemption would take effect only for the tax year after legislative approval. "This is a one‑time application and then the city will manage that internally," the presenter said, summarizing the process.

Council members asked procedural questions; staff confirmed the city will track eligibility internally so applicants need not reapply when they advance from the 62‑year to the 67‑year threshold. No formal vote on adoption occurred at the Dec. 2 meeting; the council closed the public hearing after questions and will consider next steps on a future agenda.

The hearing included no formal objections recorded in the transcript; staff encouraged outreach and public information about deadlines and application steps.