No tax relief for homeowners, despite declining values

Local News

Discussion

July 8, 2009

See full story in Friday's Democrat.

By Jeff Waters, Democrat Reporter The Suwannee Democrat Wed Jul 08, 2009, 04:34 PM EDT

Most homeowners will not get relief from property taxes this year, despite the drop in the assessed values of many homes.

In response to the downturn in the housing market, Suwannee County Property Appraiser Lamar Jenkins lowered the assessed values on most homes in the county.

However, the board of county commissioners raised the millage rate (to 8.5095 from last year's rate of 7.6160) to help make up for lost revenue. So even though your home is probably worth less than it was last year, you’ll likely pay just as much – or more -- in property taxes. Jenkins said the county's taxable value will be about $172 million less than last year, a deficit of nearly nine percent.

"It's not going to be a big tax relief for the taxpayers," Jenkins said Tuesday.

Jenkins said those that will see tax relief are those that own open lands and commercial properties. He said homesteaded properties will be hit the hardest.

"There's going to be 10,000 that get no relief," said Jenkins. There are 10,406 homesteaded properties on the tax roll.

Text Only

Local News

Free community fitness at parks
February 9, 2012 1 Photo
Motorcyclist walks away from collision with car
February 9, 2012 1 Photo
Outbreak of Cinara aphids in south county reported
February 8, 2012 2 Photos
Branford High's Karen Koon named district teacher of the year
February 8, 2012 2 Photos
Students raise funds for Evan’s Cause
February 7, 2012 1 Photo
Closing date approaching on quota liquor licensing
February 7, 2012 1 Photo
Road to Olustee at Suwannee Museum
February 6, 2012 1 Photo
Best Super Bowl ad? Vote for your favorite
Naked M&Ms, an out-of-shape dog on a mission and Clint Eastwood delivering a passionate speech about American adversity -- these are among the favorite commercials that aired during Sunday's Super Bowl.

February 6, 2012 1 Photo
Prisoner transport vehicle involved in wreck
A Jacksonville man was traveling down the wrong side of I-10 when he crashed into the van.

February 5, 2012 1 Photo
Man suffers serious injuries on CR 137 crash
Glen St. Mary man was also involved in hit and run crash in Columbia County prior to this one, FHP reported.

February 5, 2012
More Local News Headlines