Mecklenburg's Tax Relief Programs See Low Uptake Among Homeowners

Mecklenburg County, North Carolina, has a substantial amount of property tax relief funds available for residents in need, yet surprisingly, in a year marked by significant increases in tax bills, only a few are taking advantage of this assistance. This underutilization of available resources raises concerns and highlights the need for better outreach and awareness.

Bernice Bryant, a resident of Washington Heights on Charlotte’s west side, experienced a sharp increase in her property taxes following this year’s revaluation, with her bill rising by about $700. Fortunately, she learned about the county’s HOMES program from a neighbor. “It makes a big difference, not only to me, but to everyone else who needs the help,” Bryant remarked, emphasizing the program's potential impact.

Despite the evident need, Mecklenburg County has seen far fewer applications than anticipated. Of the $12.1 million allocated for the HOMES program, a staggering $10.7 million remains unused. This year, approximately 2,800 applications were approved – double the number from last year, but still a fraction of what the county hoped to achieve. The deadline for application submission is looming, with an extension already in place, leaving just two weeks for residents to apply.

Claudette Smith, a resident of east Charlotte, observes that there is a significant need for such assistance, but awareness about the program is lacking. Taking initiative, Smith has gone to great lengths to inform her neighbors and friends, even mailing applications at her own expense. However, she notes that many older residents struggle with online access, and there are challenges in getting through to the HOMES program via phone.

The county has made concerted efforts to spread the word, including sending postcards, canvassing neighborhoods, collaborating with homeowners' associations, and advertising through billboards and radio. DeLisa Tolbert from the county’s Department of Community Resources acknowledges these efforts but also points out the need for further education about the program.

County commissioner Mark Jerrell also notes the skepticism among homeowners, who, in an era rife with identity theft schemes, may doubt the legitimacy of the HOMES program’s offer of assistance.

To address these issues and provide direct assistance, Mecklenburg County is offering in-person guidance at the Valerie C. Woodard Community Resource Center in west Charlotte and the Ella B. Scarborough Community Resource Center in northeast Charlotte. The sessions, where decisions will be made the same day, are scheduled for December 13, 14, and 15, from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

The HOMES program, now in its fourth year, began in 2020 with a budget of $250,000, of which only about half was used. Last year, the program grew to $358,000, with all funds being utilized. This year, with property values steeply increasing and the revaluation, the county commissioners anticipated a growing need. Consequently, in collaboration with the city of Charlotte, the program’s budget was significantly increased to $12.1 million.

This situation in Mecklenburg County highlights a critical gap between the availability of resources and the public’s awareness or willingness to utilize them. It underscores the importance of effective communication and outreach to ensure that those in need can benefit from such vital assistance programs.