Local governments propose varying property tax adjustments

Local governments in Georgia are addressing upcoming fiscal year budgets through varying tax strategies. Gordon County commissioners have recommended a 7.7 mill Maintenance and Operations rate, marking a significant downward trend from 9.747 mills in 2015. This reduction is supported by the Flexible Local Option Sales Tax (FLOST), which voters approved in November 2025 to provide property tax relief. For a $250,000 homestead, this is estimated to reduce property taxes by approximately $618 compared to the previous year.

In Gainesville, the City Commission is preparing to vote on a budget package that includes keeping the property tax millage rate steady at 6.7297 mills. While the rate remains unchanged, the city expects to collect $4.1 million more in revenue due to rising property values, totaling approximately $81.5 million. The proposed budget also includes discussions on increasing fire assessments to cover 85% of recoverable costs and a general fund budget of $174 million.