Commissioners Approve $9.4M Budget Amendment Following Financial Report

In a recent meeting on July 29, 2025, the Lincoln County Board of Commissioners approved significant amendments to the county's budget, reflecting adjustments across various funds that will impact local services and infrastructure.

One of the key decisions involved amending the opioid settlement fund by adding $404,000. This move aims to enhance resources for addressing the ongoing opioid crisis in the community. Additionally, the board approved an amendment to the 911 budget, increasing it by $59,639, which is expected to bolster emergency response capabilities.

The commissioners also made adjustments to several other funds. The Family Connections budget was reduced by $24,212 due to the loss of a grant, while the American Rescue Plan (ARP) fund saw a decrease of $774,000, reflecting the remaining balance after expenditures. The hotel-motel fund was adjusted downwards by $16,000, attributed to a minor budget error from the previous year.

On a more positive note, the SPLOST (Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax) fund was increased by $264,000 to ensure a balanced budget, while the TSPLOST (Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax) fund received a substantial boost of $3,393,422. This increase is earmarked for road improvements funded by TIA 2 grants, which are crucial for enhancing local transportation infrastructure.

The water fund experienced a decrease of $27,000 due to revenue losses related to water availability, whereas the solid waste fund was increased by $287,513 to recover from previous expenditures related to a new vendor.

Overall, the total budget approved by the board amounts to $9,482,604, reflecting a positive amendment of $3,166,913. This comprehensive budget adjustment is aimed at ensuring that Lincoln County can effectively manage its resources and continue to provide essential services to its residents. The board's unanimous approval underscores a commitment to transparency and fiscal responsibility as they navigate the financial landscape of the community.