Hamilton County leaders are debating the benefits of a tax freeze program for residents who are 65-years of age or older. Several county commissioners support the creation of a new program but County Mayor Weston Wamp is dubious over the benefits of a new program given that tax relief options already exist.
Commissioner David Sharpe (D-Red Bank) is spearheading the initiative and said that would like the commission to vote on the issue soon.
According to Sharpe, historic increases in property values have many seniors in his district concerned with some of the highest increases at over 160 percent. Sharpe made reference to Chattanooga’s tax freeze program which may soon see expanded eligibility, thanks to Chattanooga City Councilman Ron Elliot, as inspiration to do more for seniors at the county level.
Currently, Hamilton County matches the state’s tax relief program 100 percent. The state’s program reimburses older adults either in part or in fall for their property tax bill if their annual income in 2024 was at or below $37,530. For disabled veterans and their spouses, the threshold is $175,000.
