Governor Perdue Signs Atlanta and Columbus Sewer Bill

New Law Allows Atlanta and Columbus to Address Infrastructure Needs

Atlanta - Governor Sonny Perdue announced today the signing of HB 709, the "State and Local Taxation, Financing and Service Delivery Revision Act of 2004." The omnibus bill contains provisions that will allow Atlanta and Columbus to address the infrastructure needs of their local governments.

"This legislation empowers the voters of Atlanta and Columbus to determine how their city funds critical infrastructure projects," said Governor Perdue. "Giving Atlanta a new option for solving its sewer problem could have a positive impact for downstream neighbors and help grow the state's economy."

With the signing of HB 709, the City of Atlanta may choose to enact a referendum that will dedicate an estimated $1.2 billion in sales tax revenue for water and sewer improvements. This would allow the city to offset skyrocketing sewer bills for its residents, fulfill obligations to federal environmental agencies, and provide better stewardship of water resources to downstream cities.

HB 709 also allows Columbus to place a referendum on the ballot to roll back property taxes in the city as well as fund a variety of public services, including improvement of infrastructure.

Governor Perdue signed HB 709 into law on Friday, April 23, 2004.