Both Trion and Chattooga Schools Opt Out of HB 581, Public Meetings Set

Both local school boards have voted to opt out of House Bill 581, and public meetings are scheduled to discuss the decision.

The Trion Board of Education will host its first meeting tomorrow, January 17 at 9 AM at the Trion Board of Education Office on Simmons Street. This session will provide information and allow public input. Additional meetings are planned for January 27, 2025, at 9 AM and 6 PM at the same location.

The Chattooga Board of Education also unanimously opted out. A meeting for public input will be held at 7 AM Friday at the Chattooga County Education Center on Penn Street in Summerville. Superintendent Michelle Helie assured visitors they could speak without prior submission of a public participation form, though signing in will be required.

House Bill 581, passed by Georgia voters in November, offers property tax relief through a “floating” homestead exemption that caps annual tax assessment increases to inflation rates. However, local governments and school districts can opt out of the measure in a one-time opportunity.

Public participation is encouraged as local boards evaluate the financial impact of this legislation.