More information

is needed before the Peachtree City Council decides on a proposal to freeze

property assessments for citizens over 70 years old.

The estimate

provided by city staff concluded that the city would lose $33,614 on the

initiative that would affect 1,237 homes. That averages to $27.17 per

year for each home.

Those figures

were based on the latest U.S. Census results, but Councilman Steve Rapson

suggested that Fayette County Tax Commissioner George Wingo could provide

more concrete numbers.

The property

assessment freeze, which would be lifted when the home is sold, is not

a done deal. First, the Georgia legislature must approve legislation allowing

it in Peachtree City. Second, the initiative must be approved by a majority

of residents in a city-wide referendum.

Peachtree City

resident Jim Toombs said he felt the initiative was too much work considering

the minor financial effect it would have on seniors.

Mayor Steve

Brown argued that he has heard talk of a number of senior citizens moving

to adjacent communities like Sharpsburg because of the lower property

taxes.

Brown pointed

out that citizens don't impact the school system or road system during

peak traffic periods, while Toombs argued they use other city services

such as the Gathering Place and ambulance services.

Councilwoman

Annie McMenamin said senior citizens will want to know what services are

being cut in return for the benefit.

Rapson said

the freeze on property assessments would help seniors whose only income

is their retirement plan and Social Security.