Blakely home tax breaks would depend on voter approval

The failed proposal would have provided eligible residents an exemption from Blakely city property taxes on their homes. It would cover residents of the Early County special district for homes located within that district, and apply only to Blakely city taxes. It would be added to other homestead exemptions. The exemption amount would be set each year based on net proceeds from the local sales tax; home value above that amount would remain taxable. A person would generally need to apply. Someone already receiving a Blakely homestead exemption for the same home could qualify without applying again if still eligible. Once granted, the exemption would renew yearly while the person lives in the home and remains eligible. The person must tell the local tax official if they become ineligible. The proposal called for a November 2026 vote. If more than half of votes were in favor, the exemption would start January 1, 2027, and run through December 31, 2039. It would not take effect if voters rejected it or the election was not held as required.