In a recent government meeting, Clayton County officials discussed the upcoming adoption of the millage rate, highlighting significant financial challenges faced by the county. The third public hearing on the millage rate is scheduled for August 6, 2024, following two earlier hearings on July 16 and August 6.

The county's finance department presented a stark financial overview, revealing a \"perfect storm\" of rising expenses coupled with declining revenues. Key increases included medical service fees, which rose by $4.9 million, and various contractual costs that added another $2.7 million. Additionally, the county faced increased liability insurance costs of $1.4 million and medical claims that surged by $1.3 million. Other notable increases included $3.3 million for repairs and maintenance of buildings and $500,000 for minor computer equipment.

On the revenue side, the county experienced a significant drop in public utility tax revenue, plummeting from $15.1 million to $7.1 million, resulting in an $8 million shortfall. The total requested budget for the year reached $383.7 million, while forecasted revenues were only $284 million, creating a $99 million gap. To address this discrepancy, the county implemented budget cuts totaling $66.8 million but opted not to reduce services for residents, instead enhancing some services.

To accommodate these financial pressures, the board announced a necessary increase in the millage rate, which is calculated based on 40% of the fair market value of properties, minus any applicable exemptions. This year, the county had to advertise a 31% increase in the millage rate over the rollback rate, although this does not reflect an increase compared to last year's rate.

As the county prepares for the final hearing and adoption of the millage rate, officials emphasize the importance of balancing fiscal responsibility with the need to maintain and improve services for Clayton County residents.