City Council Hosts Public Meetings on House Bill 581 Ahead of Opt-Out Deadline

By Janell Williams

The Columbus City Council is conducting a series of public hearings to inform residents about Georgia's House Bill 581 (HB581), a new property tax law, and to discuss the possibility of opting out before the March 1, deadline.

House Bill 581, passed in 2024, is a new law that helps homeowners by limiting how much their property taxes can go up each year. Instead of big jumps, property values for tax purposes can only increase based on inflation. This is meant to keep taxes more predictable and affordable. However, local governments—like cities, counties, and school districts—can choose not to follow this rule if they officially decide to opt out by March 1.

To ensure residents are well-informed, the Columbus City Council has scheduled multiple public hearings:

• Feb. 10, 2025, at 9 a.m.: City Services Center, Council Chambers, 3111 Citizens Way, Columbus, GA 31906.
• Feb. 10, 2025, at 6 p.m.: City Services Center, Council Chambers, 3111 Citizens Way, Columbus, GA 31906.
• Feb. 11, 2025, at 9 a.m.: City Services Center, Council Chambers, 3111 Citizens Way, Columbus, GA 31906.

These sessions aim to provide clarity on the implications of HB 581 and gather public input on whether the city should opt out of the statewide exemption.

Residents are encouraged to attend these meetings to gain a comprehensive understanding of HB 581 and its potential impact on property taxes. Public participation is crucial as the council deliberates on the decision to opt in or out of the exemption.

For more information, residents can visit the Columbus Consolidated Government's official website.