The City of Thomaston Mayor and Council have not voted to opt out of House Bill 581. The City of Thomaston has run the legally required advertisements in the paper that would allow the City the opportunity to opt-out - if it was determined to be in the best interest of its citizens. The language contained in the legal notice was dictated and required by the General Assembly; confusing, but required. It has always been the intention of Thomaston’s elected body to hear from its citizenry prior to making a final decision. The Mayor and Council are aware that voters supported this bill. A bill which included provisions to opt-out, and considerations for the public to have the opportunity to meet and speak at public hearings prior to a final decision. To forego these hearings is the antithesis of transparency of which our County chairman so eloquently speaks.
House Bill 581 is permanent but does offer the ability for locally legislated homestead exemptions that mimic the law. Citizens have shown frustration throughout this past year that some property assessments are incorrect as compared to similar properties. House Bill 581 would freeze incorrect assessments on homesteaded properties outside of inflation or in situations where substantial improvements are made. The Mayor and Council want the opportunity for citizens to discuss these inconsistencies and implications prior to a final decision.
The Mayor and Council invite all citizens to participate in the scheduled public hearings on the matter. Meetings will be held on February 18th at 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM, as well as on February 24th at 10:00 AM.
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