City Council Prepares Educational Campaign for November Property Tax Rollback Vote

In a pivotal meeting held on July 29, 2025, in Henry County, Georgia, local officials gathered to discuss the future of property taxes and sales tax collections, setting the stage for significant financial decisions impacting the community. The atmosphere was charged with anticipation as discussions unfolded around the proposed rollback of property taxes, which hinges on the collections from a new 1¢ sales tax.

The meeting highlighted a crucial timeline for residents and officials alike. It was explained that the rollback would be calculated based on the calendar year collections for 2026, meaning that the funds collected throughout the year, including any accrued interest, would directly influence property tax rates for the following year, 2027. This approach aims to provide financial relief to homeowners while ensuring that the county maintains a steady revenue stream.

As the conversation progressed, officials emphasized the importance of an educational campaign to inform the public ahead of early voting, which is set to begin on October 14, 2025. The official vote date is scheduled for November 4, 2025, with the new tax measures becoming effective on January 1, 2026. The urgency of these dates was underscored, as the current funding mechanism, known as Floss, will terminate on December 31, 2023, unless renewed through legislative action.

Financial projections presented during the meeting indicated that the anticipated revenue from the proposed sales tax could mirror past collections from the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST). Over the next five years, officials estimate that the county could collect approximately $353 million, a figure that underscores the potential impact of this tax initiative on local infrastructure and services.

As the meeting concluded, the sense of responsibility weighed heavily on the officials present. They recognized that the decisions made in the coming months would not only shape the county's financial landscape but also influence the daily lives of its residents. With the clock ticking toward the vote, the community's engagement and understanding of these issues will be crucial in determining the future of Henry County's fiscal health.