I find it deceiving when the City Council touts how it will increase the homeowners’ exemption to address the ever-increasing property values. Council Chairman Tommy Waters said: “The City Council is considering an increase to the standard $100,000 homeowners’ exemption to higher values like $110,000 to $130,000.”

Wow, big numbers — until you do the math. So, let’s say my exemption increases $10,000; sounds good so far. But now comes the math, 10 times $3.50 equals $35; that’s my real savings. My property taxes increased 20% for 2023, and the City Council is considering giving me back $35 next year — and even that’s a “maybe.”

Jack Lutey

Sunset Beach

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