Home values being reassessed; taxes may go up

In addition to worrying about the pollen this spring, many Fulton County homeowners will also be looking at increased home values and wondering if taxes will be higher.

Tuesday, the Fulton County Board of Assessors sent out reappraisal notices to more than 188,000 residences and 3,600 commercial properties.

Fulton officials said that more than 82 percent of the county's residences were reappraised, while 40 percent of the businesses were reappraised.

Even though there are far fewer businesses than homes, Fulton County businesses pay about 55 percent of the county's total property taxes.

Overall, the 2001 tax digest increased to $86.4 billion, which is 11 percent higher than last year.

"Residential property in Fulton County has appreciated in most areas over the past several years," said John Cunningham. Fulton County's chief appraiser.

"The 1996 Olympic Games set off a strong interest in the Atlanta area and the resulting economic growth created competition for housing, which in turn increased property values in all parts of the county," he added.

Officials said that most property values increased, but said that does not necessarily mean a tax hike. The millage rates set by various taxing authorities, such as school boards, municipalities and Fulton County determine whether taxes rise or fall.

A property owner has 45 days to file an appeal after the reassessment notice is received. The appeal should be sent to the Fulton County Board of Assessors, Suite 98 Government Center, 141 Pryor St., SW, Atlanta, GA 30303-3445.

The Board of Assessors is providing sales and index books at 15 locations around the county for citizens who want to compare their 2001 assessments to other properties.

South Fulton residents can view the books at either the South Service Center on Stonewall Tell Road in College Park, or the South Fulton Regional Library in Union City.

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