Georgia state legislators passed last week a new law granting the city of Demorest the authority to exercise a wide range of redevelopment powers under the “Redevelopment Powers Law.”
The initiative, aimed at promoting community redevelopment and economic growth, will allow the city to create tax allocation districts, issue tax allocation bonds, and take on other obligations to improve the city.
This move authorizes Demorest to fully utilize the powers outlined in Article IX, Section II, Paragraph VII(b) of the Georgia Constitution and Chapter 44 of Title 36 of the O.C.G.A., which are designed to support urban revitalization projects.
The law aims to provide the city with the tools needed to invest in redevelopment initiatives and boost local development efforts.
However, before the law can take effect, a referendum will be held to allow Demorest voters to approve or reject the measure. The vote will take place on Tuesday, November 4, 2025.
If the majority of voters approve the act, Demorest will be able to immediately implement the redevelopment powers. If the referendum fails or is not conducted as specified, the law will automatically be repealed in January 2026.
In preparation for the election, the city will publish the date and purpose of the referendum at least 90 days in advance. Voters will be asked to decide whether they support granting the city redevelopment powers, with ballots reading, “Shall the Act be approved which authorizes the City of Demorest, to exercise all redevelopment powers allowed under the ‘Redevelopment Powers Law’?”
The cost of the election will be covered by the city of Demorest, and the election results will be certified by the Secretary of State.
