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Newton County approves $6.5 million from fund balance for 2026 road resurfacing program
Summary
The Newton County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a $6.5 million transfer from the county general fund balance to finance a 2026 road resurfacing list and related budget amendment.
The Newton County Board of Commissioners voted unanimously May 20 to use $6.5 million from the county general fund balance to fund its proposed 2026 county road resurfacing program and to approve a related budget amendment.
The vote, taken after a staff presentation, authorizes a transfer described by county finance staff as “use of prior year fund balance” and increases a transfer-out line to the 2023 SPLOST account to cover resurfacing work not otherwise funded. Transportation Director Chester Clague presented the list and said public works proposes the resurfacing program “basically the same list” previously shared with the board.
County Finance Director Britney White explained the accounting mechanics for the board: the amendment raises the revenue line for prior-year fund balance and increases the transfer-out to the 2023 SPLOST so the resurfacing projects can be paid this year. “Currently, there’s right around $62,000,000,” White said when asked how the transfer will affect reserves, adding the $6.5 million “will be reducing it by 6,500,000.”
Commissioners discussed the funding trade-offs. Commissioner Edwards noted the current SPLOST lacks this money and said using general fund balance buys visible infrastructure now. Commissioner Long said county growth and evolving road needs may require future conversations with voters about reprioritizing revenue. After motions to approve the budget amendment and the road list, the board voted unanimously to adopt both measures.
The action covers resurfacing projects listed by public works for the 2026 program; county staff said some SPLOST projects remain in progress and that the amendment replaces funds for general paving that were divided among multiple projects. The board did not specify an exact construction schedule in the meeting.
The measure does not appropriate additional recurring revenue; it is a one-time use of fund balance. Staff said the county’s fund balance stood at about $62 million before the transfer. The formal motions and approvals were recorded on the consent of the board and passed without recorded dissent.
Looking ahead, commissioners signaled further discussion about long-term funding for roads as the county grows, including a potential future referendum to adjust priorities for SPLOST funds.
