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The Troup County Board of Education intends to opt out of the statewide adjusted base year ad valorem homestead exemption for the Troup County School System. All concerned citizens are invited to the public hearings on this matter to be held at the Administrative Services Center, 100 North Davis Road, LaGrange, GA 30241, on January 28, 2025, at 6:00 PM. Times and places of additional public hearings on this matter are at the Administrative Services Center on February 6, 2025, at 5:30 PM, and February 10, 2025, at 10:00 AM. 

The Troup County Board of Education is seeking community input as it considers opting out of Georgia House Bill 581, which took effect on January 1, 2025. HB 581 introduces a statewide homestead exemption that caps the annual increase in property values for tax purposes, limiting growth based on the previous year’s inflation rate. 

If the district decides not to opt-out, TCSS will forfeit any future opportunity to opt out of the HB 581 exemption. This means that no future Board will have the option to opt out of HB 581. Not opting out could impact the long-term financial health and stability of the school district. 

While the legislation would likely reduce the tax burden on many homeowners on the surface, it could lead to an increase in the millage rate to offset the revenue difference, which would shift the tax burden to businesses and income-producing rental properties. However, the district is committed to hearing from the community before making a final decision. 

Following these sessions, the Board will consider public feedback before passing a resolution by the deadline of March 1, 2025. 

Superintendent Rachel Hazel emphasizes the need for a balanced approach to implementing House Bill 581. She said, ‘We want to make decisions that reflect the values of our community while also safeguarding the best interests of our students. We must carefully consider the potential benefits and drawbacks of this legislation before making any changes that could affect their education. I strongly encourage community stakeholders to attend these hearings prior to a Board decision.’