T
ax Bills Arrive in Summit County, Bringing Increases for Some
As the first half of 2024's real estate tax bills hit mailboxes, many residents are facing higher costs. According to Kristen Scalise, Summit County Fiscal Officer, this is largely due to recent ballot measures that have increased millage rates. These levies support essential public services like schools, fire and police departments, EMS, and infrastructure.
The increases stem from two key levies:
* A 4.5-mill replacement levy for the Summit County Board of Development Disabilities, which will add approximately $158 to property owners' bills per $100,000 of appraised value.
* A current expense levy of 7.6 mills and a bond levy of 1.29 mills passed for Akron Public Schools, resulting in an annual increase of about $311 per $100,000 of appraised value.
To help manage these increases, the county offers several programs:
* The Tax Installment Plan (TIP) allows homeowners to make monthly payments until November 15th, avoiding late payment penalties. To enroll, call 330-643-2869 by February 28th.
* The Real Estate Discount Program (RED) provides a budgeting method for semi-annual tax bills into six payments, offering a discount due to early payments generating interest revenues. All property owners qualify; call 330-643-2590 to enroll now.
* Homeowners may be eligible for the Homestead Exemption program, which includes those over 65, permanently and totally disabled individuals, military veterans with specific disability ratings, and spouses of fallen first responders.
For those struggling with delinquent taxes, the county fiscal office offers assistance. To request a copy of your tax bill, call 330-643-2588 or download it from http://FiscalOffice.summitoh.net.
