Cleaning up with blight tax

Many people have asked the Office of Economic Development how they as business and property owners or concerned citizens can support Blakely’s future growth. One of the best and most effective ways is to support enforcing the Blight Tax Ordinance the City of Blakely passed last fall.

The Blight Tax also known as the “Redevelopment Tax Incentive Program,” is a proven tool used to address blighted, crime-ridden and hazardous properties within the city limits. It’s important to note that this ordinance does not affect a primary residence. It will hold owners with blighted, vacant residential and commercial properties accountable for the conditions that greatly impact the city’s vibrancy and safety.

If the property is assessed and found to be “blighted,” a factor of seven (7.0) is applied to the millage rate and then attached to the property, so it will be taxed at a higher millage rate. It is not just a fine. It is the city property tax bill. If the property is remediated, the ordinance outlines steps to reduce the bill. It strongly encourages the owner to either remediate or sell the property to support long-term investments in our community.

The ordinance allows City of Blakely residents to legally request a blight tax assessment on properties meeting the criteria for “blight” as defined in the local ordinance. At least five city residents must report the properties and notify public officials of the request. A letter from the residents can be sent to the interim City Manager, City Safety Coordinator and the City Elected Officials justifying the property or properties meet the following criteria:

• Dilapidation and unsafe conditions posing a health or safety risk

• Chronic vacancy or abandonment

• Visible deterioration or structural issues negatively impacting surrounding property values and future investments

• Persistent code violations or lack of maintenance

Property and business owners, along with anyone who cares about Blakely’s future, are highly encouraged to support the enforcement of the Blight Tax. However, the ordinance states that a minimum of five city residents must request action from the City of Blakely for the assessment process to begin.

Enforcing this ordinance has already proven effective in one residential neighborhood within Blakely. Five residents requested action on two properties and I received notice a few weeks ago that the properties were being cleaned up after years of neglect. Imagine what this can do for the future investment and the overall vibrancy of Historic Downtown Blakely.

Published in the Early County News on March 3, 2026.