MARIETTA, Ga.,None — Taxpayers in Cobb County came out Tuesday night to make their voices heard about a proposed property tax increase.
County Commissioners listened for two and a half hours as residents spoke against the proposed 17 percent increase during a tough economy. Others spoke in support of the tax increase, saying they worry county services like recreational programs, including those that fund Special Olympics programs in the county, will suffer.
Chairman Tim Lee said the countys $31 million budget shortfall is due to declining property tax values.
"If we do complete cuts, to do $31 million, it would involve cutting parks and recreation, libraries and senior centers," Lee told Channel 2's Amy Napier Viteri.
According to the county finance department presentation, raising the millage rate would cost the owner of a $200,000 home around $111 more per year. With or without the increase, Lee said public safety, which makes up around 70 percent of the budget, will not be affected.
The Board of Commissioners is scheduled to vote on the increase at the next meeting on July 26.