Richardson's plans calls for abolishing property taxes in Georgia. City Manager Bryan Shuler reminded the council Thursday that under the proposal, the state would set local budget priorities, not cities or counties, depending on which reform plan gets final consideration.
"If you don't control the revenues and expenses and prioritize you're not going to achieve your other policy objectives as a city," Shuler said.
Shuler told council members a proposed plan revision would not initially impact cities or counties but would affect school boards and vehicle advalorem taxes.
He said a suggested property assessment cap would allow no more than an annual one percent assessed value increase, but property would be re-assessed at full market value upon time of its sale, creating property value disparities.
Shuler said the Georgia Municipal Association and its member cities support a comprehensive approach as opposed to a piece meal approach to tax reform.
"We don't think the Great Plan as it's presently structured is in the best interest of our communities," Shuler said, calling it the most "god-awful program for local government would cold ever find."
Also on Council's legislative list are water issues including how the state might reimburse Gainesville for loss of revenue because of state water use restrictions.
Shuler discusses 'Great Plan'
http://accesswdun.com/article/2007/12/204667