Property values up and taxes following

The Clarion-Ledger, 7/8/8

Property values are up across the metro area, and most residents can expect higher tax bills this year.

For the first time in seven years, Madison County officials are considering a tax- rate increase.

Madison County’s draft tax assessment for 2008 places the county’s assessed value at about $1.283 billion – up from $1.218 billion in 2007, but the increase may not be enough to stave off a tax hike.

“It’s still early to tell,” Madison County Administrator Donnie Caughman said. “I don’t want to alarm anyone, but it is certainly possible.”