Cochran homeowners could get a city tax break if voters approve

The proposal would exempt eligible homes from Cochran property taxes up to an amount determined each year using local sales tax proceeds. It would cover residents with homestead property in the Bleckley County special district, and only the part of the property within that district. The exemption amount would be based on net proceeds from a 1 percent local sales tax in the special district. Home value above the exempt amount would remain taxable. The exemption would be added to other home exemptions. If the required votes approve the measure, the exemption would apply to tax years starting January 1, 2027, through December 31, 2039.

A homeowner would have to apply for the exemption unless they already received a Cochran home exemption for the prior tax year and remain eligible. The application would go to the city official who handles home tax exemption applications. Once granted, the exemption would renew each year while the person lives in the home and remains eligible. The homeowner would have to notify the city tax official if they become ineligible.