Residents urge Clayton County officials to exempt seniors from rising property taxes

The Clayton County Board of Commissioners held a Special Called Meeting on April 29, 2025, to address pressing community concerns, particularly regarding property taxes and their impact on senior citizens. The meeting featured public comments that highlighted the financial struggles faced by many residents, especially those on fixed incomes.

Patricia Slater, a senior citizen and Clayton County resident, opened the discussion by urging the board to consider property tax exemptions for seniors. She emphasized that many seniors, after a lifetime of contributing to the community, are now burdened by rising property taxes that threaten their ability to remain in their homes. Slater argued that exempting seniors from property taxes would not only be a fair acknowledgment of their contributions but also an investment in the community's future, as many seniors wish to continue living and giving back to Clayton County.

Following Slater, Drew Andrews, a resident of Unincorporated Jonesborough, expressed his frustration over significant increases in his property taxes, which had risen by $3,000. He criticized the board for perceived inaction and called for smarter financial strategies to capitalize on opportunities, such as leveraging events like the upcoming World Cup to generate revenue for the county. Andrews stressed the need for the board to take decisive action rather than merely discussing issues.

The meeting concluded with a brief discussion about the need for an executive session, which was ultimately deemed unnecessary. The board then moved to adjourn the meeting after a motion was made and seconded, with no further discussion.

Overall, the meeting underscored the urgent need for the board to address the financial pressures on senior citizens and the broader community, as residents called for more proactive measures to manage property taxes and enhance local revenue opportunities.