“Tax Freeze” program for seniors discussed at Bristol TN meeting

A tax freeze program was discussed at the Bristol Tennessee City Council meeting Tuesday. A 33 cent tax increase was approved this year, and now the council plans to meet with the Tennessee Comptroller’s Office to consider the tax freeze program. Seniors who meet an income requirement could apply to freeze the amount they pay in taxes. This would keep their bill the same even if the rate or their property value goes up and unless the rate is lowered. Bristol, Tennessee offers state tax relief and city tax credit and if the tax freeze program was adopted, it would be coupled with those existing options. In August, the city council will vote to change the cities charter to shorten the amount of time an ordinance takes to go into effect, provide clearer language regarding elections, redefine the council’s relationship with the school system and would restructure public comment at council meetings.