MEDIA ADVISORY
REQUEST FOR COVERAGE
Press Conference on the Ballot Referendum regarding Chatham County Schools Tax Relief Act (House Bill 782) Plan to Cut Chatham County School Taxes
WHAT: In just eight years, Chatham County school taxes have jumped 87%. In 2019, the school tax bill was $253.4 million. The 2026 tax bill will be $440 million — an increase of $186 million.
And here’s the kicker: while taxes skyrocketed, school enrollment dropped by 5%. That’s 1,500 fewer students. Meanwhile, administration costs are up 65%. School taxes make up about two-thirds of your property tax bill. The current homestead exemption for the school portion goes up every year with inflation (CPI), which means your savings shrink over time — even if the millage rate stays the same.
This year, we passed in the Georgia General Assembly, House Bill 782 – The Chatham County Schools Tax Relief Act. If voters approve it in the November general election, 2025, this will create a true “floating” homestead exemption. Your school property tax would be capped at your home’s base-year value — no more automatic CPI increases. If local leaders want more money, they can still raise the millage rate — but they’ll have to do it openly and explain why, instead of raising taxes through the “back door” by riding the wave of rising home values. With property values climbing fast due to growth, it’s time to give homeowners real, lasting tax relief.
WHO:
Rep. Ron Stephens, Dean of the Chatham County Delegation to the Georgia General Assembly
Rep. Jesse Petrea
Rep. Edna Jackson
Rep. Bill Hitchens
Rep. Carl Gilliard
Sen. Billy Hickman
Sen. Derek Mallow
Sen. Ben Watson
WHEN:
Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2025
10:00 a.m.
WHERE:
Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce
101 E. Bay Street
Savannah, GA 31401
CALL TO ACTION:
The media is invited to attend and learn more about what this bill means for Chatham County families and homeowners, and why these local representatives are urging voters to vote YES for the Chatham County Schools Tax Relief Act on the November ballot.
CONTACT:
Dave Simons Political Group
dsimons@simonspoliticalgroup.com
912-713-4944