City plans millage rate assignment ► PAGE 6 J u l y 1 0 , 2 0 2 5 | A p p e n M e d i a . c o m | A n A p p e n M e d i a G r o u p P u b l i c a t i o n | 5 0 ¢ | Vo l u m e 2 9 , N o . 2 8
OPINION
Millage rate hike is bad for residents, worse for seniors Every year around this time, the Fulton County Board of Commissioners faces a critical decision: setting the millage rate that ultimately determines how much residents pay in property taxes. ROBB PITTS FULTON COUNTY COMMISSION CHAIRMAN Let me be clear. At the June 18, 2025, County Commission meeting, I voted against raising the millage rate from the current 8.87 mils to up to 9.87 mils. This proposed increase is excessive and places an unfair burden on all residents, especially our seniors. Even if the county maintains the millage rate at 8.87, many property owners will see a tax increase, because property values have risen over the past year. Raising the millage rate on top of that would be a double whammy — higher values and higher rates — compounding the financial pressure on many households. Raising taxes in today’s economic climate is both unwise and unjust. Inflation and global factors like tariffs are already driving up the cost of essentials — food, housing, healthcare and more – forcing people to watch every dollar they spend.
See PITTS, Page 21
SARAH COYNE/APPEN MEDIA
Jason Evans, right, with Shenanigans, a program offering life scenario engagement, leads an improv at Camp Joyful Soles.
Camp instills confidence Joyful Soles tailors program to enrich youths’ experience By SARAH COYNE sarah@appenmedia.com MILTON, Ga. — Camp Joyful Soles is more than a summer day camp. It’s a place to make meaningful connections and build confidence. For more than a decade, Camp Joyful Soles has provided participants with a comfortable environment to thrive and grow during the summer. The summer day camp is put on each year by Milton Parks and
Recreation for 13 to 22-year-olds with special needs. No day is the same. Each features special guests ranging from therapy dogs to drama therapy, a practice involving drama and theater techniques to help individuals resolve conflicts and problems. Even the Milton Fire Department and Police Department join in on the fun. Campers are also taken on field trips to go swimming or visit the zoo.
See CAMP, Page 21
I just feel like it changes your perspective on life, and also just what you know about these kids.” BROOKE NOLAN Camp manager
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