By Matt Myers
City Councilman, Norcross
NORCROSS, Ga. | As a member of the Norcross City Council, I believe it is crucial that our residents have a clear understanding about the proposed Norcross Homestead Act. This is a direct response to the rising cost of living and is designed to provide meaningful tax relief to homeowners, particularly seniors on fixed incomes. It’s about ensuring Norcross remains a place where people can afford to live, work, and invest for the long term.
What is the Norcross Homestead Act?
It is a measure that significantly increases the city’s homestead exemptions for property taxes. A homestead exemption reduces the taxable value of a homeowner’s primary residence, which in turn lowers their annual property tax bill. On Dec. 2, 2024, Norcross City Council voted to approve the Norcross Homestead Act, which the Gwinnett House and Senate members got passed in the Georgia General Assembly and was signed into law on May 14, 2025, authorizing a public referendum.
Why would there be a need to increase the homestead exemption for Norcross?
The current homestead exemption for Norcross homeowners—$9,000 for residents under 62 and $18,000 for those 62 or older—has not been updated since 1990. During that time, the average home price in Georgia was $70,700, while Gwinnett was $95,500. Today, the median home sales price in Norcross is as much as $475,000, representing a nearly 400 percent increase. However, at the same time, the exemption amount has remained stagnant.
What are the proposed changes?
The proposal seeks to increase the homestead exemptions as follows:
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- Changes the qualifying senior homestead exemption from age 62 to age 65 to align with Gwinnett County;
- For homeowners under the age of 62: Increase from $9,000 to $45,000. (400 percent increase); For homeowners 62 to 65: Increase from $18,000 to $45,000 (150 percent increase); and
- For homeowners 65 and older: Increase from $18,000 to $90,000 (400 percent increase).
How will this benefit Norcross residents?
This will bring tax relief, helping homeowners keep up with the rising costs of living. It will make homeownership more affordable, especially for families and those on fixed incomes.
What is the financial impact on the city?
The current exemptions reduce city tax revenue by approximately $166,500 annually. The proposed increase is estimated to have an additional financial impact of about $667,000. This is equivalent to approximately 0.4 mills at the current millage rate.
The city will manage this impact by setting the millage rate annually based on the tax digest and may explore budget adjustments, revenue diversification, or grants to ensure fiscal responsibility without compromising essential city services. This initiative is consistent with the City’s Comprehensive Plan Goal 2, strengthening Norcross as a livable, inclusive and safe environment and Goal 5, which aims to ensure that Norcross residents have a variety of attainable, quality housing options.
What is the process for approval?
For this change to take effect, it must be approved by the voters of Norcross. The final step is a public referendum scheduled for November 4, 2025.
How can you participate?
All registered voters in the City of Norcross are encouraged to learn about this important issue. Understand the Norcross Homestead Act and the impact to your home. Educate your neighbors about the referendum and the benefits of the Norcross Homestead Act. The most crucial step for voters is to exercise their rights by voting in this year’s upcoming election on November 4, 2025.
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