More than a month remains before Dawson County property tax assessments go out, but local officials are bracing for at least a 10 percent drop in collections.

"We started by having meetings with the different department heads and elected officials to talk with them about ways they can further cut their budgets that have already been cut over the past three years," said County Manager Kevin Tanner.

Michael Roberts, chief tax assessor, said the county could see 11 to 12 percent less revenue due to a drop in assessment values and a new exemption for seniors age 70 and older.

Approved by voters in November, the measure exempts $120,000 off the assessed value of property for all seniors 70 and older, regardless of income.

"The school system is really going to see the impact from those exemptions," Roberts said.

Dawson County School Superintendent Keith Porter said the projected reduction, coupled with state cuts, could mean about $4.3 million less in funding.

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