2025 Property Taxes

The Whitfield County Board of Education has tentatively adopted a millage rate which will require an increase in property taxes by 21.99 percent. All concerned citizens are invited to the public hearings on this tax increase to be held at the Whitfield County Schools District Office, located at 3264 Cleveland Highway, Dalton, Georgia 30721 on Thursday, June 26, 2025 at noon and 5:30 p.m. Times and places of additional public hearings on this tax increase are at the Whitfield County Schools District Office, located at 3264 Cleveland Highway, Dalton, Georgia 30721 on Thursday, July 3, 2025 at 5:30 p.m. This tentative increase will result in a millage rate of 16.25 mills, an increase of 2.929 mills. Without this tentative tax increase, the millage rate will be no more than 13.321 mills. The proposed tax increase for a home with a fair market value of $245,000 is approximately $287 and the proposed tax increase for non-homestead property with a fair market value of $185,000 is approximately $217.

The Whitfield County Board of Education remains committed to transparency, fiscal responsibility, and putting students first in every decision. As we plan for the final FY24 budget year, we want to share important information regarding our proposed millage rate and our school system's financial realities.

Lowering the Millage Rate While Meeting Needs

We are proposing a millage rate of 16.25 for FY25, a significant reduction from the current rate of 18.5, though an overall tax increase. We recognize the importance of easing the tax burden on our community whenever possible, and this proposed rate reflects that commitment. At the same time, our schools continue to face growing financial pressures that must be addressed to maintain the quality of education our students deserve while avoiding further penalties related to the state funding formulas.  

Increased Costs

Despite the reduced millage rate, we must provide additional funding to cover rising costs, including:

• An unfunded increase of $2.5 million in employee healthcare expenses, mandated at the state level.
• Step increases for all eligible employees, ensuring we retain high-quality teachers and staff.
• Unfunded, state-mandated initiatives, including early literacy training and support, essential to student success.

Impact of the Temporary Tax Digest

Adding to these challenges, the Whitfield County Board of Assessors implemented a temporary tax digest following recent legal proceedings. This digest was based on 2023 property values with a 10% adjustment, resulting in significantly lower-than-expected local revenue for the school system. This shortfall has impacted our ability to fund necessary programs and services, even as we work to reduce the millage rate.

Our Commitment to Students and the Community

Even in the face of economic challenges, Whitfield County Schools remains focused on:

• Maintaining high academic standards
• Providing meaningful opportunities that prepare students for college, careers, or military service
• Supporting the needs of our students, families, and staff through thoughtful, student-centered investments
• Being fiscally responsible with state and local funding

We are proud of the progress we continue to make and are committed to responsible fiscal management that ensures every dollar is used effectively to support our mission. Thank you for your continued support of Whitfield County Schools. Together, we will remain focused on building a strong future for all our students.