Georgia Dept. of Revenue reviews Forest Land Protection Act that reduces property tax rates for forestland owners who commit to conservation program, alleges 'questionable practices' in Wayne County relating to act, plans audit

Wendy Lisney

LOS ANGELES , January 15, 2014 (Industry Intelligence) – The Georgia Dept. of Revenue has reviewed the state's Forest Land Protection Act (FLPA) after report from the department found “questionable practices” relating to the act in Wayne County.

The department now plans to audit the Wayne County Tax Assessors Office, according to a report by The Press Sentinel.

Although the report focused on Wayne County, it could have wider implications for the state, as it was undertaken to review the FLPA formula and assess its effects on businesses and industries in Georgia.

The FLPA formula promotes land conservation by reducing property tax rates for forestland owners who commit to conserving their land for a 15-year period.

The report noted that if enrollment in the program has a negative impact on the overall tax digest, local taxing authorities are eligible to receive a state assistance grant, The Press Sentinel reported.

The primary source of this article is The Press Sentinel, Jesup, Georgia, on Jan. 7, 2014.

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