Chelsea City Council Approves Police Tax Ordinance

The city will establish its own police department funded by a new 5-mill ad valorem property tax.

Updated on Oct. 28, 2026 in City Hall

Chelsea City Council Approves Police Tax Ordinance

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Do you support your local government creating a new police department to replace county-level services?

The Chelsea City Council voted 4-1 to approve a property tax ordinance aimed at funding a new municipal police department. This new force is intended to replace the policing services currently provided to the city by Shelby County deputies.

Why it matters

The decision marks a significant transition in local law enforcement for Chelsea residents as the city moves toward establishing its own independent police agency. By shifting away from county-provided services, the city gains localized control over its public safety operations.

The ordinance establishes a 5-mill ad valorem tax, which equates to approximately 50 cents for every $100 of assessed property value. The tax measure passed with a 4-1 vote during the council session.

The players

Chelsea City Council

The local governing body responsible for legislative decisions and budgetary oversight for the city of Chelsea.

Shelby County

The regional government authority that currently provides police services to the city of Chelsea.

Casey Morris

A city councilor who served as the sole dissenting vote against the new property tax ordinance.

The details

The newly passed ordinance grants the city the necessary funding to transition from relying on Shelby County deputies to staffing a dedicated Chelsea police force. Councilor Casey Morris provided the lone dissenting vote against the measure during the meeting.

October 27, 2026: The Chelsea City Council voted to approve the property tax ordinance.
October 28, 2026: The ordinance takes effect immediately.

Political Context

The city's move to create an independent force mirrors broader regional trends where municipalities seek greater autonomy by utilizing the Alabama municipal ad valorem tax statutes. Opponents of such measures often cite concerns regarding the immediate increase in property tax burdens for local homeowners.

Property owners in Chelsea will see a new tax charge of 50 cents per $100 of property value appearing on their assessments starting now. This funding will facilitate the transition to a local police department, replacing the existing service model provided by county deputies.

The takeaway

Residents should update their long-term financial planning to account for the new property tax rate now in effect. This transition will ultimately change how police services are delivered and managed within the local community.