Chatham County residents are facing rising concerns over property taxes and housing affordability, as highlighted during the recent Chatham County Commission meeting on June 27, 2025. A local resident, a retired Air Force veteran, voiced the worries of many community members about the impact of increasing property values and taxes on long-term residents, particularly those on fixed incomes or with health challenges.

The speaker emphasized that many longtime residents in areas like Taubbi Allen have been forced out of their homes due to escalating property taxes linked to short-term rentals and other market pressures. He urged the commissioners to consider the human impact of their decisions, particularly for vulnerable populations who may lose their homes.

In response, Commissioner Keith Glenn acknowledged the concerns and reassured residents that those who have filed for homestead exemptions would not see their property taxes increase based on rising home values. He explained that while the millage rate could lead to higher taxes, the assessed value for those with exemptions remains frozen, protecting them from immediate financial strain.

Despite these reassurances, Glenn expressed his opposition to a proposed tax increase in the special service district, advocating for alternative funding solutions that would not burden residents further. He provided specific examples of how a potential two-mill increase could affect homeowners, illustrating that those with homes valued at $150,000 could see an annual tax increase of $120.

The discussions at the meeting reflect a growing tension in Chatham County as residents grapple with the dual challenges of rising property values and the potential for increased taxes. As the commission moves forward, the implications of these decisions will be closely watched by community members concerned about maintaining affordable housing and protecting long-standing residents from displacement.