College Park Ward 4

https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=tq0Jtk8PFk0

WARD 4 AUG 4 REVIEW

Ward 4: July Council Meeting Updates

College Park Applauds Landmark Legislation Providing Historic Tax Relief for Senior Homesteaders
College Park, GA — The City of College Park is proud to announce a historic opportunity for its senior residents. A new local law—House Bill (HB) [Number Pending], signed by the Governor during the 2025 Legislative Session—would eliminate city property taxes for eligible seniors aged 65 and older. The measure will appear as a special referendum on the City of College Park ballot this November 4, 2025.

If passed by voters, this transformative legislation will provide long-awaited and meaningful tax relief to senior homeowners, many of whom live on fixed incomes. Seniors who are 65 or older and have owned their home in College Park for at least five years will no longer be required to pay city property taxes, easing the financial burden and allowing them to age with dignity in their homes.

“This is a historic step forward for America’s seniors,” said Councilman Roderick D. Gay, MPA, who has championed senior protection policies citywide for over three years. “For decades, too many of our seniors have faced losing their homes over a few thousand dollars in delinquent taxes. This legislation reaffirms our promise to safeguard their legacy and ensure they are not priced out of the community they helped build.”

The legislation comes in response to long-standing concerns. Under current policy, the City of College Park auctions tax-delinquent properties within 12 months—often resulting in private investors gaining homes at steep discounts, stripping as much as 40–60% of a property's equity from longtime residents.

The exemption is expected to cost the city approximately $2.7 million annually—a modest impact relative to the city’s $220 million budget, bolstered in part by Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport revenue. Advocates argue that it’s a small price to pay for protecting the quality of life of those who’ve contributed to the city’s success.

Beyond tax relief, Councilman Gay has also introduced a companion resolution allowing residents aged 55 and older to be reimbursed $215.88 for enrolling in 12-month combo coverage for sewer, water, and indoor plumbing service lines, as part of a broader initiative to help seniors maintain their homes and avoid unexpected repair costs.

Numerous senior and aging advocacy groups across Fulton County, including the Georgia Council on Aging, have applauded the legislation and are urging residents to vote YES this November.

As College Park continues to lead with compassion, this legislation exemplifies how cities can protect their most vulnerable citizens while reinforcing community cohesion. It also aligns with the city’s efforts to limit displacement from the rise of short-term rentals and speculative investment.

A New Era for Senior Homeowners
College Park’s initiative is not only historic—it may serve as a model for cities nationwide seeking to balance growth with equity and justice.

For interviews, more information, or to schedule a feature, contact the College Park Communications Department at [email protected] or visit www.CollegeParkGA.com.