Property values rise in Milton.

1.14 percent tax digest increase.


Courtesty Appen Newspapers / Staff

MILTON, Ga. – In a mixed blessing, Milton's overall tax digest increased this year. That means more money for the city to operate on, providing much-needed services. The down side is that, due to state law, it's called a tax increase.

The tax digest is the total value of all real property in the city. It was reported by Fulton County that Milton's digest rose 1.14 percent in 2012.

Due to the increase, the city of Milton is legally obligated to hold three public hearings and advertise a property tax increase. However, the city is not increasing residents' taxes – by law it cannot, unless a majority of registered voters choose to increase the millage rate. The increase is due solely to the reassessment of existing real estate, and the millage rate remains at the legally mandated cap of 4.731.

Three public hearings will be held in the Council Chambers of Milton's City Hall. They are scheduled for:

Aug. 27 at 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. – first reading

Sept. 5 at 6 p.m. – second reading and vote

"We want to make sure residents understand the city of Milton is not raising their taxes," said Stacey Inglis, finance director for Milton. "As a result of the increased value of property in the city, we must advertise a 'tax increase' – but it is wholly separate from what voters decide at the polls."
Inglis said though the total digest rose 1.14 percent, values across the city varied. The Fulton County Tax Assessors Office reported some rose, while others dropped or remained stagnant.

For more information on the tax digest increase, please contact the city of Milton at 678-242-2500 or info@cityofmiltonga.us.