North Augusta City Council reports on 2024 tax collections and budget updates

During the City of North Augusta Council Study Session on July 28, 2025, city officials reported significant financial updates, including stable tax rates and improved revenue collections, which are expected to benefit the community.

The council confirmed that there will be no increase in the tax rate for the fiscal year 2025, maintaining the current rate despite previous millage increases in 2022 and 2023. These increases have allowed the city to enhance personnel resources and purchase essential vehicles and equipment outright, avoiding financing costs.

Tax collection rates remain robust, with the city achieving a collection rate of 99.59% for the current fiscal year. This marks a significant recovery from lower collection rates in previous years, attributed to outstanding taxes from Riverside Village. The city is also seeing positive trends in hospitality and accommodations taxes, with collections up 6.3% and 36%, respectively, compared to the previous year. This growth is largely driven by increased tourism and the opening of new hotels.

The council discussed the city’s outstanding debt, highlighting a strategic shift away from lease purchases due to rising interest rates. The city aims to continue purchasing vehicles outright, which is expected to reduce overall debt significantly in the coming years. In 2024, the city reduced its total debt by over $5 million, reflecting a commitment to fiscal responsibility.

Additionally, the council addressed utility billing updates, noting that residents may receive multiple bills due to a backlog in billing cycles. City officials assured that no late fees or shutoffs would occur while the billing system stabilizes.

Overall, the meeting underscored the city’s proactive financial management and commitment to enhancing community services while maintaining fiscal health. As North Augusta continues to grow, these financial strategies are poised to support ongoing development and community well-being.