Sunday Conversation with David Britt, Muscogee County Tax Commissioner

David Britt has spent nearly his entire professional career inside the Muscogee County Tax Commissioner’s Office. From his early days as a front-line clerk to now leading the department as Tax Commissioner, Britt has seen every side of the office — the good, the challenging, and the rewarding. Ten months into his tenure, he sat down with The Courier Eco Latino for a Sunday Conversation about the transition, his priorities, and what residents should know before making that trip to renew their tags or pay property taxes.

Q: You’ve been in office for about 10 months now. How has the transition been?

Britt: It’s been a blessing — truly. First of all, it’s nothing but God working everything out. Having spent over 25 years in this office, I was able to come into the position with a deep understanding of both the work and the people. I started here in 2000 as a clerk on the front line, worked through administration, managed delinquent tax collections for about 10 years, and then served as Chief Deputy Tax Commissioner before being elected.

Having that experience — the highs, the lows, and the lessons learned along the way — really prepared me for this role. Plus, I have a great team. Leadership is only as strong as the people around you, and my staff makes all the difference.

Q: You followed longtime Tax Commissioner Lula Huff, who served for nearly three decades. How did that influence your approach?

Britt: Ms. Huff was here for 27 years, and she left a tremendous legacy. Having worked under her for much of that time, I was able to see what works and where we could continue to grow. I’ve built on that foundation while looking for ways to modernize and streamline services for our citizens.

Q: For those who only visit when renewing tags or paying property taxes, can you explain what your office actually does?

Britt: Absolutely. Our office is responsible for collecting property taxes, processing homestead exemptions, hosting delinquent tax sales, and handling all motor vehicle registrations and renewals.

What we don’t do is set or change tax rates — we simply collect them on behalf of the city, county, and school board. We’re here to serve the public and ensure the process is efficient and transparent.

Q: The county installed self-service kiosks a few years ago. Have those made a difference?

Britt: They’ve been a tremendous help. Many people don’t realize you can go to the kiosks at Publix locations on Macon Road, Bradley Park Drive, or in Midland Commons to renew a tag, replace a registration, or even pay an insurance lapse fee.

We still get long lines, but these kiosks — along with online services — are reducing the need for people to come downtown. The goal is convenience and flexibility.

We’ve also revamped our website — columbusga.gov/taxcommissioner — to make it a true one-stop shop for property tax payments, vehicle renewals, and general information.

Q: For those who do prefer to come in person, when’s the best time to visit?

Britt: Mondays, Fridays, and the beginning or end of the month are always the busiest — especially before or after a holiday. The best time to visit is midweek, particularly on Wednesdays. If you can, avoid the last-minute rush. You’ll save yourself a lot of time.

Q: What changes or improvements have you implemented since taking office?

Britt: A few key things. We’ve added three new employees to the tag department to shorten wait times at the windows. We’ve increased staff training — because a better-trained team means a more efficient and courteous experience for the public.

We’ve also modernized our website and digital services, allowing people to complete most tasks without having to come in. The goal is a faster, more efficient, and more positive experience every time someone interacts with our office.

Q: You’ve mentioned community involvement. How does that fit into your mission as Tax Commissioner?

Britt: I love serving people — that’s what it’s all about. We’re active in the community through partnerships with organizations like the West Central Georgia Cancer Coalition, United Way, and youth programs.

I want our office to be known not just as the place where people pay taxes, but as an office that truly cares. We may not control tax rates, but we can control how we treat people. That’s something I take very seriously.

Q: Final question — are you enjoying the job?

Britt: Absolutely. It’s an honor. Every day, I get to help someone solve a problem or make their experience just a little easier. Serving the citizens of Muscogee County isn’t just a job — it’s a calling.