Marion County commissioners are set to consider an ordinance that would broaden eligibility into a program that helps economically disadvantaged residents pay their property taxes.

The Marion County Board of County Commissioners will host a public hearing to consider an amendment that could provide financial relief to a larger number of low-income homeowners across the county during its regular meeting on Tuesday, March 17.

The proposed ordinance focuses on the Low-Income Non-Ad Valorem Tax Assistance Program (LINATA). Currently, the program provides financial aid to qualifying residents to help offset non-ad valorem assessments included on annual property tax bills. These include things like solid waste and fire service fees.

Under the existing rules established in 2016, eligibility is strictly limited to households at or below 100% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).

For a single-person household in 2026, the FPL threshold is $15,960. For a family of four, it is $33,000.

The proposed amendment would authorize the County Administrator to increase that eligibility threshold up to 150% of the FPL. That change would allow a single resident earning up to $23,940, or a family of four earning up to $49,500, to qualify for the assistance.

This push for expanded tax relief follows a broader effort by the county to address housing affordability.

Earlier this year, Marion County officials highlighted separate initiatives aimed at making homeownership more accessible, including programs that offer up to $100,000 in assistance for down payments and closing costs for eligible residents.

While those programs focus on the initial purchase of a home, the LINATA expansion is aimed at helping current homeowners maintain their properties and avoid financial hardship due to rising assessment costs.

The board will also consider repealing a 2016 resolution to eliminate conflicting language and streamline the new eligibility standards.

The Marion County Board of County Commissioners next meets at 9 a.m. on Tuesday, March 17, at the McPherson Governmental Campus (601 SE 25th Ave., Ocala).

What are your thoughts on the county’s efforts to provide tax relief for low-income residents? Share them in a comment below or write a letter to the editor.