Dougherty County residents are encouraged to be informed about the referendum currently on the ballot as local leaders launch a communitywide outreach effort ahead of Election Day.

Dougherty County Administrator Deron King and Albany City Manager Terrell Jacobs delivered a joint presentation to the Rotary Club of Albany outlining how the proposed floating local option sales tax (FLOST), tied to House Bill 581, would work in conjunction with homestead provisions to help offset rising property taxes. If approved, the measure would reduce millage rates for both the city and county, resulting in estimated savings for homeowners and businesses.

The outreach effort is intended to provide education and information to residents about the referendum. The presentation is part of an ongoing community “roadshow” ahead of Election Day on May 19. Early voting is already underway.

Leaders emphasized that the proposal is structured to shift part of the tax burden away from property owners by leveraging sales tax revenue generated by both residents and visitors who use local services.

Under the proposal, sales tax revenue would be used specifically to roll back property tax millage rates and cannot be used for new spending. Officials also noted that the city and county have opted into the homestead cap tied to the Consumer Price Index.

Early voting is underway. Residents can cast their ballots now or vote on Election Day, May 19.