Georgia voters will determine the future of family farms across the state when they vote on Referendum A during next Tuesday's election.

If approved by a majority of voters, the referendum will create an ad valorem property tax exemption on certain types of farm equipment such as farm tractors, combines, planters livestock and poultry equipment and other types of farm equipment. Motor vehicles would not qualify for the exemption.

"Farmers pump a lot of money into the rural economies across the state as they purchase farm supplies and ag equipment. Exempting farmers from paying property taxes on their farm equipment will allow them to stay in business during these economically challenging times created by the drought and low commodity prices," said Wayne Dollar, Georgia Farm Bureau president.

Georgia agriculture makes a significant contribution to the state's economy. In 1999, the value of all farm commodities produced on Georgia farms statewide reached $7.9 billion. The value of all farm commodities produced in Fulton County in 1999 was $23.1 million.

The passage of Referendum A would save Fulton County farmers approximately $7,675 in ad valorem taxes each year.

J. Wayne Stradling
South Fulton County Farm Bureau, Palmetto

 

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