Trion School Superintendent Dr. Phil Williams has publicly criticized State Senator Colton Moore for threatening local legislation if the Trion School Board chooses to opt out of House Bill 581, a bill limiting property tax increases to the Consumer Price Index (CPI).

In a strongly worded statement, Williams took issue with Moore’s approach, claiming the senator bypassed a simple phone call to discuss concerns and instead resorted to what he called “inexcusable bullying” and “grandstanding” in statement released by Senator Moore.  WZQZ News reported in January on Moore’s threats against local taxing authorities when the state senator stated, “If local boards decide to go forward with plans to opt out, I will introduce local legislation in the Georgia General Assembly to implement a total assessment freeze”. (See related article from WZQZ).

Williams highlighted the apparent contradiction of Moore voting in favor of HB 581, which includes an opt-out clause for school systems, only to then threaten the Trion School Board for considering that very option. ”

Senator Colton Moore voted ‘YES’ for HB 581 that allows school systems to opt-out if the elected board members believe it is the right thing to do for their students and school system,” Williams stated. “Colton voted ‘YES’ for the bill, but then threatened the Trion School Board Members if you take advantage of what the bill gives you the right to do.” Williams defended the board’s decision to consider opting out, citing “unknown financial impact” and “possible unintended consequences” of the bill.

He also emphasized the Trion City School system’s long-standing commitment to low property taxes. “Does Senator Moore understand that the Trion City School system has had the lowest school tax millage rate (5.7 mills) of all Georgia School Systems for at least 20 years?” Williams questioned.

The superintendent concluded by expressing his disappointment with Moore’s tactics, reiterating that a simple conversation would have been more productive. He accused Moore of creating “dissension” and unfairly attacking a group of individuals dedicated to maintaining low taxes.