BRYAN COUNTY, Ga (WSAV) — Bryan County Schools voted 5-2 today on whether to opt out of the homestead exemption, a move that could raise taxes to fund the growing school district.
However, not everyone is on board, with some residents voicing strong opposition on opting out of the Homestead Exemption under House Bill 581.
This decision has been stirring up debate across Bryan County. The School Board says opting out is necessary to fund new schools and teachers. In recent meetings, many residents have worried that raising property taxes is not the way to go.
If approved, homeowners could see an increase in property taxes – with additional revenue going toward the rapidly growing school district.
School officials say that opting out is essential to fund new schools and hire over 300 teachers needed by 2048. They also point to budget concerns, stating that if the exemption had been in place over the past five years the district would have lost over $4 million – enough to fund 40 teachers.
However, the decision sparked outrage among residents, and many worry of the financial burden on seniors and those on fixed incomes. At previous meetings, dozens of community members voiced opposition arguing the board should explore other funding options.
"We don't have a money problem, I feel like we have a spending problem," said a Bryan County resident at a public meeting.
"We will grow to about 16,000+ students. So, you ask yourself what could more than 6,000 news kids in Bryan County schools mean? It could mean 5 new schools," said Dr. Paul Brooksher, the Bryan County Schools Superintendent.
State lawmakers have responded by introducing house bill 362 - which would nullify the school board’s decision to opt out – potentially giving residents the final say in November. Despite the backlash, the school board remains firm emphasizing the need for funding to maintain educational standards amid the county’s rapid growth.
After the vote, residents continued to sound off.
"Even though the decision today was five 5-2, hopefully that House Bill 362 will reverse that decision and follow the will of the people. My big issue, other than my taxes going up, was that 15,212 people in Bryan County voted for this bill, and yet five people just rewrote their votes."
Overview:
- A potential tax hike could lead to higher property taxes.
- School growth needs: funds needed for new schools and over 300 teachers by 2048.
- State legislation: House Bill 362 could allow residents to vote on the exemption in November.
Despite the backlash, the school board remains firm on their stance. This means emphasizing the need for funding to maintain educational standards amid the county's rapid growth, which they say they'll see an increase of more than 6,000 students in the next 20 years.
The vote happening this morning is expected to draw a large crowd and could significantly impact homeowners across Bryan County. WSAV will be at the meeting this morning and will provide updates as soon as the board reaches a decision.