Perry County moves forward with senior property tax relief program after voter approval

FOX23 News at 9 p.m

PERRYVILLE, Mo., (KBSI) — Perry County officials are continuing work to implement a new Senior Property Tax Relief Program after voters overwhelmingly approved the measure in April.

The program is intended to help qualifying senior homeowners limit future increases in real property taxes on their primary residence. County officials have designated 2026 as the program’s base year.

The measure was approved by 73% of Perry County voters during the April 2 election following a citizen-led petition effort.

“Perry County voters made it clear that they support providing property tax relief for our senior citizens,” Presiding Commissioner Mike Sauer said. “County officials are actively discussing implementation options and exploring the software and administrative tools necessary to ensure the program is administered accurately and efficiently.”

County leaders said they are working to develop eligibility verification procedures, enrollment requirements and administrative processes needed to operate the program in accordance with state law.

Under Missouri law, eligible participants must be at least 62 years old and meet additional requirements that will be established by the county and state regulations.

Officials emphasized that residents do not need to take any action at this time. Information regarding enrollment, required documentation and program deadlines will be announced once implementation procedures have been finalized.

The Senior Property Tax Relief Program was authorized by the Missouri General Assembly through Senate Bill 190 in 2023 and later amended by Senate Bill 756 in 2024.

Residents are encouraged to monitor official Perry County communication channels for future updates.