In Johnson City, Tennessee, city commissioners are currently evaluating a new ordinance that is set to ease the tax burden on a variety of resident groups.
“We’re looking to establish a local property tax relief initiative,” explained Stephanie Laos, the finance director for Johnson City, in a conversation with News Channel 11. This program is designed to complement the state’s existing tax relief efforts.
At their meeting on July 16, city commissioners approved the ordinance in its preliminary reading. This marks a step forward in the legislative process for this community-focused initiative.
Laos shared with News Channel 11 that this relief program is designed to assist diverse members of the community.
“The objective of this plan is to provide support to the more vulnerable members of our city,” Laos explained. “We’re focusing on those taxpayers who are living on fixed incomes. Specifically, it targets elderly and disabled homeowners, along with disabled veterans and their surviving spouses.”
The program follows the same guidelines as the state’s property tax relief program and could save taxpayers hundreds of dollars.
“Last year’s dollar amount, that was what the state set, was around $113 for the city of Johnson City,” Loas told News Channel 11. “I would expect it to be in that ballpark. But we won’t know anything until the state comes out with their dollar amounts.”
Laos added that this program will add to the state’s program.
“If you qualify for the state program, you’re going to qualify for ours as well, and that’s going to be over and above what the state already gives you,” Laos said.
The property relief program is, however, different from Tennessee’s property freeze program.
“This is different than the tax freeze, where we’re not going to be limiting anyone’s taxes,” Laos told News Channel 11. “This would just add an additional bit of relief of a dollar amount off the top of your tax bill that you wouldn’t have to pay.”
Laos added that the program will not negatively impact taxpayers who don’t qualify for the program.
“No, there won’t be any change to anyone else’s other than whatever property tax changes come about,” Laos said. “This won’t affect anyone negatively. It’s only meant to be a benefit to those people who do qualify.”
Laos told News Channel 11 that residents can check the Tennessee Comptroller’s website to see if they qualify for the state program, or call their office to check qualifications.
The ordinance has two more readings before it can be passed. The next reading is on Aug. 6 at the Johnson City Commission meeting.