Ringgold voters would decide whether homes get a city tax break

The proposed law would exempt eligible homes from Ringgold city property taxes up to an annual amount tied to local sales tax proceeds. It would cover a resident's homestead property located within the Catoosa County special district. The amount would be based on net proceeds from the sales tax collected in the special district. Property value above the exempt amount would remain taxable, and this exemption would be added to any other homestead exemption. The measure would need approval by two-thirds of both the House and Senate and approval by voters in the referendum. If approved in the referendum, the exemption would apply to tax years beginning January 1, 2027, through December 31, 2039.

The city election superintendent would have to hold a referendum on the measure. The referendum would be for City of Ringgold voters who live within the special district. If more than half of votes cast favor approval, the exemption section would take effect. If voters reject the measure or the election is not held as required, the exemption would not take effect and the act would be repealed 365 days after the scheduled election date. The election is scheduled for the Tuesday after the first Monday in November 2026.