T
he Cumberland County Commission has asked the state to share a portion of the real estate transfer tax funds collected in the county. A resolution passed during the November commission meeting requests that the Tennessee General Assembly return half of the tax revenue to the county. The tax, imposed at 37 cents per $100 of value for recording documents related to property transfers, is currently remitted to the state despite being collected locally.

    The resolution cites the limited revenue options available to counties and their reliance on property taxes to fund essential services mandated by state law. As Cumberland County experiences rapid population growth, the demand for county services and infrastructure increases, putting pressure on local property taxes. Sharing the tax revenue would alleviate this burden and allow investment in infrastructure and services without straining state finances.

    Cumberland County Mayor Allen Foster notes that other county associations, including the Association of County Mayors and the Tennessee County Commissioner's Association, have also requested the state share real estate transfer tax revenue with the originating county. The resolution was unanimously approved by the commission, sponsored by Terry Lowe, 5th District commissioner.