Blackshear voters would decide on a homeowner property tax break

The proposal would give eligible residents a city property tax break, with the exempt amount set each year using local sales tax proceeds. It would cover a resident's homestead property located in the Pierce County special district. The break would apply only to Blackshear city taxes and would be added to other homestead exemptions. Any home value above the exempt amount would remain taxable. If the measure receives the required legislative votes and voters approve it, the break would apply to tax years from January 1, 2027, through December 31, 2039.

Homeowners generally would have to apply to the city tax official for the break. These rules would apply to people seeking the proposed break for a homestead in the special district. A person who received another Blackshear homestead exemption for the same home in the prior tax year and remains eligible would not need to apply again. After approval, the break would renew each year while the person lives in the home and remains eligible. The person must tell the tax official if they become ineligible.

City election officials would hold a vote on the measure. The vote would be for Blackshear voters who live within the Pierce County special district. The bill would need a two-thirds vote in both the House and Senate to become law. More than half of votes cast must favor approval for the tax break to take effect. The city would pay for the election. The election is set for the Tuesday after the first Monday in November 2026. If voters reject the measure or the election is not held as required, the tax break would not take effect and the bill would be repealed.