GA HB1097

Authorizes the creation of one or more community improvement districts within the City of Emerson, Georgia, to provide governmental services including street construction and maintenance, parks, storm-water and sewage systems, water treatment and distribution, public transportation, and parking facilities

Each district is governed by a five-member board, with two members appointed by the City of Emerson governing body and three elected by property owners (electors) of nonresidential real property within the district

Districts may levy taxes, fees, and assessments only on nonresidential real property, capped at 2.5% of aggregate assessed value, with proceeds collected by Bartow County (minus a collection fee of 1% up to $25,000 per year) and used exclusively for district purposes

Activation requires a taxpayer petition with project specifications, a resolution from the City of Emerson, written consent from a majority of property owners and owners representing at least 75% of property value, and certification by the Bartow County Tax Commissioner

Districts may incur debt and issue general obligation bonds (maturing in up to 40 years) backed by the district's full faith and credit, and may be dissolved when debt-free, with all property and obligations devolving to the City of Emerson