Richmond Hill property owners may be able to get money back, fire protection fee settlement

RICHMOND HILL, Ga. (WSAV) — Thousands of Richmond Hill property owners may get money back from fire protection fees that they have paid to the city. The city formed these fire protection fees during the population boom that's occurred over the past several years. By law, every dollar collected from this fee was restricted solely to the Richmond Hill Fire Department. It ensured that the department had the personnel and equipment necessary to maintain the highest standards of safety, protecting the lives and property of the entire community. A settlement in a class-action lawsuit against the fire protection fees stated that they should be classified as 'taxes'. 'As part of this settlement, the City will provide refunds to eligible property owners who paid Fire Fees between November 7, 2018, and the date of final court approval,' said the city in an online release. 'Property owners who paid the fire fee in past years may be eligible for refunds, depending on a motion now pending before the Superior Court. If it is granted, refunds would be reduced by attorney and administrative fees.' Under the proposed settlement, the $5 million fund would be used for refunds and settlement costs. Court approval is awaited. More details are to be provided after. Visit this link for detailed information or call the claims administrator at (800) 345-0837.