Bulloch County taxpayers speak out against proposed property tax increase

BULLOCH COUNTY, Ga. (WTOC) - A significant tax increase proposed by Bulloch County Schools is worrying both the school district staff and local taxpayers.

In July, WTOC reported that the board voted to adopt a tentative millage rate that would mean a nearly 40% tax increase.

SEE: Bulloch County school board votes on tentative higher millage rate

With this millage rate increase, there will also be an estimated $3 million in spending cuts.

This is all due to the district facing a $15 million deficit in fiscal year 2027.

This deficit is not only leaving the board with tough decisions...but also upsetting residents.

“I feel like I’m being punished now,” said Pete Strub, a Bulloch County resident. “I’ve done everything I can to live within my means and suddenly I’m being punished.”

“From the children, to the teachers, to the taxpayers,” said Lawton Sack, another Bulloch County resident. “This is a failure that is going to hurt taxpayers while our schools continue to not serve the children despite more money being spent.”

Most of the neighbors at Thursday’s meeting like Sack, are strongly against the tax increase.

Some of them saying they simply cannot afford any more taxes on their homes including senior resident Mary Lee.

“We have reached the age that we should be comfortable in our lives, but yet because of the rapid increases towards us, I think it is totally unfair,” said Lee.

The school board says that the alternative solution would have meant that nearly 125 jobs, including teachers, could be cut.

Many school district employees supported the tax hike at a previous meeting saying students would suffer if the budget cuts are too deep.

Two student support organizations have already received notice of their termination for 2027.

“It is to ensure that every student, especially the most vulnerable. Those that are in need receive a quality education with certified teachers and compassionate support,” said a BCSD employee.

There will be two more public tax meetings before the tax increase is finalized.

They are both on August 21st at 9:00am and 6:00pm.