Bacon County proposal links home tax breaks to sales tax

Bacon County would exempt part of eligible residents’ homestead property value from county property taxes, with the amount set each year using local sales tax proceeds. It would cover residents with homestead property in the special district, which matches Bacon County. Any property value above the exempt amount would remain taxable. The exemption would apply only to Bacon County taxes and would be added to other homestead exemptions. The proposed 1 percent sales tax would run from January 1, 2028, through December 31, 2037. If voters approve the measure, the exemption would apply to tax years starting January 1, 2027, through December 31, 2039.

The county would hold an election on the proposal, which could take effect only if voters approve it and both legislative chambers meet the required two-thirds vote. Bacon County voters would decide whether to approve the proposal. More than half of votes cast on the question must favor approval. If voters reject the measure or the election is not held as required, the exemption would not take effect and the measure would be repealed 365 days after the election date. The election would be held on the Tuesday after the first Monday in November 2026. If approved, the exemption would begin January 1, 2027.