The CA Board of Directors sets the rate to a maximum of 75 cents per $100 of valuation assessed on 50 percent of the fair market value, as determined by the State of Maryland for real estate tax purposes. Residents contribute 70 percent of the annual charge revenue and the business community 30 percent. The Columbia Association applies the same methodology used by Howard County and the State with respect to their caps on property taxes, and they don't apply those caps in calculating taxes due on a property in the year following the purchase.

The income provided by the annual charge, while significant, covers less than half of the cost of the services provided by the Columbia Association. Therefore, some of the most popular activities, such as Package Plan or Facility Memberships, require the payment of dues and fees. Since CA resident members pay both membership dues and the annual charge, their dues are significantly lower than those paid by Non-CA residents. For example, CA resident families normally pay approximately 50 percent less for a membership in the Package Plan or for the outdoor pools than non-CA residents.

This approach creates a strong community balance. Those who use CA facilities and programs support the greatest portion of those costs, while the expense of maintaining and operating universal amenities like community centers, pathways, tot lots and lakes are shared by all residents. A recent survey showed that CA services are well-used and enjoyed by the community — 94 percent have used at least one of the amenities including the Open Space, and 72 percent have become members or used the sports and fitness facilities, camps, before and after school care or the Art Center on a pay-as-you-go basis.

For information about your annual charge, call the Annual Charge Hotline at 410-715-3058.

ON THE HORIZON

The CA Board has kept the annual charge rate for FY2011 at 68 cents, almost 10 percent less than the allowable maximum. In FY2009, the CA Board reduced the cap on increases in assessed valuation from 3 percent to 2.5 percent, which is one-quarter of the amount allowed by law. The amount to be paid will still be calculated based on 50 percent of the fair market value of the property. Residents contribute approximately 70 percent of the annual charge revenue, and the business community contributes 30 percent.

Back to top