In a recent government meeting, Clayton County officials convened for the third millage hearing regarding the proposed fiscal year 2025 millage rate, which is set to be adopted on August 6, 2024. The discussions highlighted significant financial challenges facing the county, including rising expenses and declining revenues.

County officials reported a total of $383.7 million in requested departmental expenses against a forecasted revenue of only $284 million, resulting in a budget shortfall of $99 million. Key factors contributing to this financial strain included a $4.9 million increase in medical service fees, $2.7 million in contractual costs, and a $1.4 million rise in county liability insurance. Additionally, new state mandates necessitated the establishment of an ethics board, which will incur operating costs and salaries.

Despite the financial difficulties, the board expressed a commitment to avoid service reductions and instead enhance services for residents. The proposed millage rate for the upcoming year is set at 18.5 mils, an increase from last year's rate of 16 mils. This change translates to an average annual tax increase of approximately $261.54 for homeowners valued at $250,000, and $406.84 for businesses valued at $350,000.

Officials clarified that while the advertisement indicates a 31% increase, this figure is a legal requirement based on the rollback rate, which does not reflect the actual increase in taxes from the previous year. The rollback rate is a theoretical rate that would generate the same revenue as the previous year without any property value reassessments.

The meeting also addressed salary increases for certain elected officials, particularly judges, mandated by the state legislature, which the county is obligated to fund. The ethics board, created by the general assembly, will oversee specific elected officials under the board of commissioners' purview, although it does not currently include judges or other county legislators.

As the county navigates these financial challenges, officials remain focused on transparency and community engagement, ensuring that residents are informed about the implications of the proposed millage rate and the budgetary decisions being made.