• The Thomas County School Board approves the first property tax increase in 12 years, increasing the tax rate to $12.67 for 2024.
• Average homeowners will see an increase of about $179, while non-homeowners will pay an additional $154.
• Watch the video to learn how this decision impacts neighbors in Thomas County.

PROGRAMME SCRIPT

Property taxes in Thomas County are rising for the first time in 12 years.

“It’s very tough when you add that amount of money to an already tight budget,” Ansley said.

I’m following what’s next for homeowners in Thomas County.

Neighbors in Thomas County are facing a new challenge: a property tax increase.

This first tax increase in twelve years will increase the average homeowner’s tax bill by about $179 and that of non-homeowners by $154.

With inflation already straining budgets, many citizens are concerned about this additional financial burden.

“My grocery bill has doubled and I’m alone with my son and I’ve spent twice as much as I did a year ago,” Ansley said.

Martha Ansley, who has lived in Thomas County her entire life, says this tax increase is a heavy burden, especially for her and her two sisters, who are all retired and on fixed incomes.

“It’s very hard because they live on a fixed income and some of them can barely make ends meet,” Ansley said.

Joey Holland, CFO, told me the decision had already been approved.

“We held three required public hearings on the tax increase. The school board unanimously approved the increase to 12.67 per thousand for 2024,” Holland said.

Holland tells me that this increase is necessary to qualify for a $12.6 million grant from the state. To receive that grant, the county must meet a minimum effective rate of 14.

“The decline was less than 11 this year, so we didn’t want to risk losing that $12.6 million,” Holland said.

He says neighbors can have their property reassessed to potentially qualify for lower taxes.

“If they believe the information is incorrect, they can appeal it each year after receiving their tax assessment,” Holland said.

Ansley suggests setting up financial programs to help neighbors pay their property taxes in smaller, manageable amounts.

“A system where they can pay a small amount each month rather than having to pay a lump sum would probably help,” Ansley said.

This tax increase only applies to neighbors who live in Thomas County and outside the city limits.