Frequently Asked Questions
What are "ad valorem" taxes and how are my taxes being spent?
The Council has held many workshops on a variety of topics of interest to residents. These workshops provide an opportunity for residents to “hear” different ideas and reasoning. We hold “Chat with Council” monthly in different areas of the county to listen to our constituents. Information is published after each committee or council meeting on the website. We have revised purchasing policies, the use of Pcards, and invite residents to access the financial portal on the website to tracks expenses and revenue.
Questions arise about the efficient use of the 2018 referendum funds - residents can visit “beaufortcountypenny.com” for full details on project status (in design, in progress, completed). Your funds are all accounted for and being utilized as specified in the referendum and approved by Council.
The 278 bridge project has been approved and is now moving forward. Estimated to begin with “shovels in the ground” in late 2027/early 2028 with a completion date of 2031.
How has Beaufort County Council worked to regain the public trust?
Ad valorem taxes are levied based on the assessed monetary value of an item, such as real estate, vehicles, or personal property. The term is Latin for "according to value". This tax serves as a primary revenue source for county governments to fund services like public safety. libraries, parks/recreation, government departments (planning, assessor, etc.).
The County Assessor determines the fair market value of the property, which is then taxed based on a specific percentage or rate. The Treasurer sends the tax bills to residents - this year the Council specified that the tax bills should list exactly what you are paying for as a resident. If you look at your tax bill, it itemizes how your taxes are being appropriated for services from the county.
If you have questions, please call or email me.
What makes TAB different?
I am a career educator by trade, having served 30 years in public education in Ohio, then I engaged teachers and principals in professional development activities to improve instruction for students for over 7 years.
Now I serve on County Council, but do not consider myself to be a “typical politician”. My primary goal is to ensure that government serves the people. That’s what we are here for. We must limit government overreach, manage spending and provide full transparency on issues. I support open workshops, listening sessions, “chat with council”, deep budget discussions, and am always willing to hear from constituents. Managing growth in the county is challenging, but can be done by following our comprehensive plan and scrutinizing any requests for “upzoning”. Owners have “buy right” and can build on their land as it is zoned.
I am visible, engaged in the community, and believe in protecting the beauty of our county.
What happened to the money generated by the 2018 sales tax referendum?
————————————-
How has the county spent the penny tax for GREENSPACE?
———————————————
—————————-