Macon-Bibb rolls back tax rate, expands insurance coverage, funds Cliffview Park work, renews tax breaks for developers

The Macon-Bibb County Commission agreed to roll back the millage rate after property values increased in recent real estate boom. Larger tax breaks are expected next year as the Other Local Option Sales Tax mandates a 5 mill rollback in 2023. Commissioners also debated expanding insurance benefits to small nonprofit organizations that partner with the county. Developers of at least 10 housing units can get a tax break under the Heartbeat Incentive program renewal. The county also approved settling a couple of deputy-involved traffic crash lawsuits, and spending SPLOST revenue for improvements at Cliffview Lake Park which will serve neighborhoods off Houston Avenue. Here are the highlights from the Aug. 2 commission meetings.