Celina City

Certain individuals may have heightened vulnerability to water contaminants compared to the general population. People with compromised immune systems - such as those undergoing chemotherapy, organ transplant recipients, individuals with HIV/AIDS or other immune disorders, elderly residents, and infants - might face greater risks from infections. These individuals should consult their healthcare providers about their municipal water consumption.

The EPA and CDC provide guidelines on minimizing infection risks from contaminants like Cryptosporidium and other microbes through their Safe Municipal Water Hotline at (800) 426-4791 or online resources.

Delivering quality water involves complex treatment processes beyond simple distribution. Water treatment professionals must obtain licensing and undergo extensive training to become fully qualified. Our certified specialists understand diverse scientific disciplines including mathematics, biology, chemistry, and physics.

Our water professionals routinely:

• Operate and maintain purification equipment
• Monitor gauges, meters and operating conditions
• Conduct regular water testing and analyze results
• Maintain optimal water chemistry
• Apply data to determine treatment requirements and flow levels
• Document and report test results to regulatory agencies
• Serve the community through education and outreach

We're pleased to present our annual water quality report. As in previous years, we remain committed to delivering top-quality municipal water while addressing new regulations, source water protection, conservation initiatives, and community education.

Regarding lead in home plumbing: Elevated lead levels can cause serious health problems, particularly for pregnant women and young children. Lead in water primarily comes from materials in service lines and household plumbing components. While we provide high-quality water, we cannot control plumbing materials in homes. After water has sat unused for several hours, you can minimize potential lead exposure by flushing your tap for 30 seconds to 2 minutes before using water for consumption. If concerned, consider having your water tested. Information about lead testing laboratories in Ohio is available at http://www.epa.ohio.gov/ddagw or by calling (614) 644-2752. Additional resources on lead in water are available from the Safe Municipal Water Hotline or at www.epa.gov/lead.

What is the current property tax rate in Celina?

The City's property tax rate for fiscal year 2018 (July 1, 2017, to June 30, 2018) remains at $2.248 per $100 of assessed value, unchanged from the previous fiscal year.

Are there any discounts for early property tax payments?

Yes, the City offers a 0.5% discount on City Tax when paid by July 31.

What options do I have if I can't afford my property tax bill?

While the City doesn't offer payment plans for real estate taxes, partial payments are accepted and credited toward your bill. However, full payment must be completed before December 31 of the billing year to avoid tax sale risk in the following May. For more information about the tax sale process, visit the Bid Baltimore Website and click the "FAQ" button.

Can I appeal if I believe my property assessment is too high?

Yes. You can find information about the appeal process on the State Department of Assessments and Taxation website or contact them at 410-767-8250.

What should I do if I accidentally overpaid my property taxes?

Submit a written request to the Revenue Accounting Section, 200 Holliday Street, Room 3, Baltimore, MD 21202. Include your account number, payment proof, and specify whether you want a refund check or transfer to another account. For transfers, indicate the account type and number for the funds.

What property tax credits might I be eligible for?

Start by visiting the City's tax incentives page for a complete list of potential credits. Applications are available on the website. Also contact the State Department of Assessments and Taxation at 410-767-8250 or online to obtain state credit applications.

Are there special tax incentives for first-time homebuyers?

The City doesn't offer specific tax incentives for first-time homebuyers, but you can find all available City property tax credits on the tax credit section. First-time buyers may benefit from visiting the Live Baltimore Home Center at 343 N. Charles or checking their website.

How can I verify if I'm receiving the homestead tax credit?

Review your property tax bill online by entering your block/lot, property address, or owner's name. If you receive the homestead credit, you'll see both "state assessment credit" and "city assessment credit" listed on the left side with amounts deducted from your net tax. For questions about your property tax bill, contact the City's Collections Call Center at 410-396-3987.

What is the homestead tax credit program?

This program limits annual increases in taxable assessments for eligible owner-occupied properties. Established in the late 1970s during rapid property value increases, state law requires each Maryland locality to set limits on annual increases. The City set its annual cap at 4%, where it remains today. The credit applies to taxes due on reassessment portions exceeding the 4% limit and appears directly on property tax bills.

Do I need to register if I'm renting out rooms in my home?

Baltimore City Code requires licensing for properties with more than two dwelling units or rooming units. This applies even if some units are owner-occupied. Single-family dwellings may have up to two roomers sharing common entrance and cooking facilities with the owner without registration. Contact the registration office at 410-396-3575 or online for more information. Additionally, notify the State Department of Assessment and Taxation about any changes to your owner-occupancy status as it may affect Homestead Tax Credit eligibility.

How do I update my mailing address for property tax bills?

Send a written request to the City's Department of General Services Property Location Section, 200 Holliday Street Room 204, Baltimore, MD 21202 or fax to 410-576-8310. Include the property address or block & lot, new mailing address, effective date, and property owner's signature. Contact them at 410-396-3800 with questions.

What is semi-annual billing and how does it work?

Semi-annual billing applies only to owner-occupied primary residences and allows property tax payment in two installments. The first installment is due in July (becoming delinquent in October), while the second is billed December 1 (becoming late January 1). A service charge applies to the second installment. If eligible but not receiving semi-annual billing, contact the State Department of Assessments and Taxation at 410-767-8258 to verify your primary residence status.

Should I pay property taxes directly or through my mortgage company?

This is a personal choice. If unsure whether your mortgage company has established an escrow account for your property taxes, contact them directly to confirm.