By Dick Hodgetts
Contributing Writer

Ellen Warren, chair of the Morgan County Board of Commissioners, presented an overview of county government to the local Rotary Club. She noted the decline in property tax revenues and its impact on operations, and consideration of new initiatives. She suggested that the decline in property values continues to be a major concern both to property owners, the county government and the school system. Until the backlog of foreclosed properties is factored into property values, it is likely the tax revenues will decline or remain static, she said. She was joined by Chamber of Commerce President Bob Hughes who discussed the importance of the upcoming vote on SPLOST. The 1 percent sales tax revenue is important to our school system and to keeping county property tax rates at current levels. Among the many positives cited by Warren include: the Public Safety building that was brought in on time and underbudget, the success of the aquatics center and the team effort to keep county operations stream-lined in the face of declining tax revenues. Warren cited an initiative to hold a continuing series of meetings with local officials, the City of Madison and others who impact government services.
Rotary is composed of professional men and women who act to serve the community. They meet at noon on Tuesdays at Madison ChopHouse Grille.

Printed in the March 1, 2012 edition.