Marietta City Schools Board of Education announces public hearings on intention to opt out of HB-581

Marietta, GA — The Marietta City Schools Board of Education intends to opt out of Georgia House Bill 581, a statewide adjusted base year ad valorem homestead exemption, for the Marietta City School District. As part of the process, the board will hold three public hearings inside the MCS Board Room at the Central Office building.  

Georgia House Bill 581 (HB-581) took effect January 1, 2025, and introduced a statewide floating homestead exemption that caps the annual increase in home values for tax purposes. This exemption impacts property taxes for cities, counties, and school districts. HB 581 allows cities, counties, and school districts to opt out of the property tax cap.

While designed to provide property tax relief, the legislation could result in significant funding reductions for local school systems, potentially impacting classroom instruction, teacher retention, and school programs. Opting out of the exemption will allow the Board of Education to continue making financial decisions that align with the needs and priorities of the Marietta community.

Residents may address the MCS Board of Education at the three public hearings. It is important to note that this decision to opt-out will not affect any existing exemptions for Marietta City residents.

WHAT: Marietta City Schools Homestead Exemption public hearings
WHEN: Tuesday, January 21, at 5:30 p.m.; Wednesday, January 29, at 6:30 p.m.; Tuesday, February 11, at 12:00 p.m.
WHERE: 250 Howard Street, Marietta, Georgia 30060