MONROE, Ga. - Homeowners in Walton County are bracing for a 19.55% property tax increase, and many say the jump could force them out of their homes.

What we know:

The Board of Commissioners approved the hike earlier this month, sparking a rally in downtown Monroe where dozens of residents gathered with signs and chants to protest the decision.

What they're saying:

County leaders insist the increase is necessary. Walton County spokesperson Ben Hammond said the rise stems from the need to build a new public safety center. "Taxes were raised unfortunately because we had to build a new public safety center. The current jail for Walton County is old and dilapidated and we were forced by federal government to build a new one," Hammond said.

Hammond noted that commissioners also approved a

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