Athens-Clarke County commissioners are expected to adopt the county's fiscal year 2027 budget and consider placing a new property tax relief measure before voters during a special called session Tuesday night.
The agenda includes final approval of the FY27 budget, establishment of the 2026 property tax rate and consideration of a referendum that would ask voters to approve a 1% Floating Local Option Sales Tax.
The budget ordinance includes funding for county departments and government programs for the upcoming fiscal year, and would set the 2026 maintenance and operations property tax rate at 12.25 mills. If approved, the budget would take effect July 1.
Commissioners are also expected to consider a resolution calling for a countywide referendum on a 1% Floating Local Option Sales Tax. The measure proposes a special 1% sales tax which would last for five years with proceeds used exclusively for property tax relief.
Local officials have said the measure would shift some of the tax burden from property owners to consumers, including visitors and students who spend money in the county. If passed by commissioners, the proposal would appear on voter ballots in the November election.
The meeting begins at 6 p.m. Tuesday at City Hall, 301 College Ave., and includes an opportunity for public comment before commissioners vote.
