FOREST PARK — At its Monday, March 4 regular meeting, Forest Park City Council adopted a municipal blight tax ordinance.
A press release stated the ordinance is part of the city’s ongoing effort to improve neighborhood sustainability, while also focusing on maintaining a clean, vibrant environment for residents and visitors.
The new legislation increases ad valorem taxes by 10.0 mills on residential and commercial properties deemed blighted, abandoned or unsafe and subsequently decreases the millage rate for a period of time once the property is remediated or redeveloped.
Once an inspection has been completed by the city, a determination shall be provided to the respective property owner, in writing, confirming that the property — per ordinance standards — is in a blighted condition.
Tax-exempt properties, such as churches, cemeteries and land owned or operated by charitable organizations, would not be impacted by the ordinance.
City officials also plan to work directly with residents and business owners who may face additional financial burdens due to the new adopted ordinance.
“As we work tirelessly to attract significant investments in economic development, quality housing and neighborhood revitalization, I decided it was critical to sponsor much-needed legislation that would aid in the elimination of blight seen throughout Clayton County’s largest municipality,” said Mayor Angelyne Butler. “This ordinance is in no way an attempt to add extra financial hardships on our constituents. However, we will no longer allow ill-principled property owners to negate their responsibilities. Comprehensive legislation like this sends a clear message that it is a new day in Forest Park, and I would especially like to thank our governing body for realizing the importance of building upon the monumental progress we have achieved over…
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