In a recent public hearing held on July 29, 2025, the Newton County Board of Commissioners discussed the implications of the proposed millage rate increase and the ongoing infrastructure projects funded by previous SPLOST initiatives. The meeting highlighted the necessity of staffing and funding for projects that were approved several years ago, emphasizing the importance of maintaining public services and infrastructure.

Commissioner Mason addressed concerns raised by residents regarding the visibility of tax dollars at work, particularly in relation to road maintenance and repairs. He noted that while not every road can be paved annually, the county has made efforts to provide transparency through the listing of Local Maintenance and Improvement Grant (LMIG) projects on the county website. This initiative aims to inform residents about ongoing and planned road improvements.

A significant point of discussion was the millage rate, which is set to increase from 8.2 to 8.6 mills. This decision comes after a history of reductions from a high of 13.4 mills in 2019, reflecting the board's commitment to property tax relief. The increase, although modest, is necessary to ensure adequate funding for essential services, including public safety and infrastructure maintenance. The board's decision to opt into House Bill 581, which locks in a 4% property tax rate for homeowners, was also highlighted as a measure to provide financial relief to residents.

The commissioners emphasized the importance of maintaining a healthy financial reserve, with a goal of having at least six months' worth of savings. This financial strategy is crucial for the county's ability to respond to unforeseen circumstances, such as the economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Overall, the discussions during the public hearing underscored the board's efforts to balance fiscal responsibility with the need to support community services and infrastructure. As the county moves forward, residents can expect continued updates on the implementation of these projects and the management of the millage rate.