AUGUSTA, Ga. () – The public is invited to attend three public hearings regarding Georgia House Bill 581 (HB-581).

According to city leaders, HB-581 establishes a floating homestead exemption, which limits the annual increase in property tax assessments on homestead properties to the rate of inflation for the previous year, and it also allows local governing bodies a one-time opportunity to opt out of the exemption.

According to city administrators, these public hearings will allow the community to make its voice heard as the Augusta Commission considers whether to opt out.

According to the city of Augusta release, as required by HB-581, Augusta is advertising its intent to opt out even though no formal decision has yet been made.

City leaders say these public hearings creates more opportunity for community discussion, and they are encouraging all community members to attend these hearings to share their input:

• February 4th at 6 P.M. – Robert Howard Community Center at the Diamond Lakes Regional Park (103 Diamond Lakes Way, Augusta)
• February 11th at 6 P.M. – Warren Road Community Center (300 Warren Road, Augusta)
• February 18th at 11 A.M. – Lee N. Beard Commission Chamber in the Municipal Building (535 Telfair Street, Augusta)

The Augusta Commission must decide whether to opt out by March 1st.