The Chatham County Board of Commissioners intends to opt out of the statewide adjusted base year ad valorem homestead exemption for Chatham County, Georgia.

In 2024, state lawmakers passed House Bill 581, which was signed into law by Georgia Governor Brian Kemp later that year. The bill created a statewide homestead exemption, but homeowners in Chatham County already had access to the Stephens Day exemption.

By opting out, Chatham County homeowners will prevent House Bill 581 from replacing Stephens Day, which could lead to higher property taxes due to calculation differences between the current and statewide exemption.

“Stephens Day will give you more options,” Chatham County Chairman Chester Ellis said. “Stephens Day, right now, as it stands, is much better for us and it can save you more on your taxes.”

All concerned citizens are invited to the public hearings on this matter to be held at the Commission Meeting Room on the second floor of the Old Courthouse, 124 Bull Street, Savannah, Georgia at the following times:

Thursday, Feb. 6 at 6 p.m.

Friday, Feb. 7 at 9:30 a.m.

Friday, Feb. 21 at 9:30 a.m.