DOUGLASVILLE, Georgia. – The Douglasville City Council has proposed a 16.67% property tax increase. The city has planned a 1.25 percent tax rate increase to offset both the loss of revenue from a local sales tax it shares with Douglas County and the increase in costs Douglas County charges the city for fire and animal control services.

“Starting in January 2025, our fire and animal control costs will increase from $1.8 million to $4.5 million, with a 3% increase over the next 10 years,” said Douglasville City Manager Marcia Hampton. “I know this is frustrating for residents, but I think it’s easier to address the problem up front.”

According to the city, the proposed tax increase for a home with a market value of $350,000 is approximately $175 per year.

At the first of three public hearings on the proposed tax increase, taxpayers raised concerns about the fairness of an increase and the potential impact on their budgets.

“As homeowners, we will no longer be able to afford our homes,” said Shakena Mincey.

Others said they were convinced the city could accomplish more with the money it already has at its disposal.

“What about the streets?” said Christine Sheehan.

City Councilman and Mayor pro tempore Terry Wilson says negotiations with the county over services and taxes have been unsuccessful. He says the city has argued with the county that city residents already pay taxes to the city and county.

“This is double taxation,” Wilson explained. “Our citizens are already paying for services, and you’re asking them to pay even more.”

The city council is expected to make the final decision at its meeting on August 29.