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Putnam County approves modest increase to real‑estate transfer excise tax
Summary
Putnam County commissioners approved a small increase to the privilege/excise tax on real‑estate transfers after the county clerk said the change would produce only modest revenue to help offset employee pay increases; no public opposition was recorded during the required advertisement period.
Putnam County commissioners voted to approve an increase in the privilege (excise) tax on transfers of real estate after a presentation from County Clerk Brian Wood.
Brian Wood told the commission the change would affect only people transferring property and ‘‘isn't going to generate much, but a little bit extra money toward the ever‑rising cost’’ of employee pay increases. The proposal had been advertised for public comment; staff reported no written comments were received prior to the meeting and no one rose to speak at the hearing.
The commission moved to approve the order as presented and carried the motion by voice vote.
Why it matters: The change creates a new, ongoing local revenue stream tied to property transfers. County officials said proceeds would be used in part to help offset personnel costs. The commission noted the county is one of a minority of counties that previously had not imposed this transfer privilege tax.
The action: The commission approved the privilege/excise tax on real‑estate transfers as presented. The motion was seconded and carried by voice vote.
What’s next: The clerk's office will finalize the implementing order and coordinate system updates and notification to local title/closing services so the new charge is collected at transfer.
