Press Release

Schley County Explores Opting Out of HB 581 As required by law, the Schley County Board of Commissioners (BoC) will hold three public hearings as part of its process to determine if it will opt out of House Bill 581. The first hearing will be held on January 30 at 6 p.m. The second will be held February 6 at 6:00. A third public hearing will take place on February 13 at 6:30. All of the public hearings are scheduled to take place in the Schley County Courtroom located at 47 North Pecan Street, Ellaville, GA. Georgia House Bill 581 (HB-581) took effect January 1, 2025, and introduces a statewide homestead exemption that caps the annual increase in property values for tax purposes. This exemption impacts property taxes for cities, counties, and school districts. HB 581 does allow cities, counties, and school districts a one-time opt-out of the property tax cap. Regardless of financial circumstances, the homestead exemption is permanent if a jurisdiction does not opt out. While designed to provide property tax relief, the legislation could result in significant impacts to Schley County revenue. The Schley County BoC is exploring options to determine whether opting out or staying in HB 581 is more beneficial to the County. Citizens may address the Schley County Board of Commissioners at any of the three public hearings. A sign-up sheet will be available at the hearings for those wishing to speak. There is no need to sign up in advance of the meeting date.