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Pierce County commissioners approve 1-mill tax increase, table FY2026 budget
Summary
The Pierce County Board of Commissioners voted 4–1 to raise the FY2025 millage rate by 1 mill and adopted a resolution formalizing the FY2025 tax levy; the board postponed final approval of the FY2026 budget to Dec. 2 to allow further review of insurance and payroll costs.
The Pierce County Board of Commissioners voted to raise the FY2025 millage rate by 1 mill and adopted a resolution formalizing the tax levy during a called meeting on Nov. 17 in Blackshear. Chairman Neal Bennett announced, "There are 4 ayes and 1 nay," after Commissioner Randy Dixon moved to approve the increase and Commissioner Troy Mattox seconded. Commissioner Graham Raley voted in opposition.
County Manager Raphel Maddox told the board he recommended the 1-mill increase and said he had reviewed department budgets closely. Maddox also presented the FY2026 budget as recommended but said he continues to look for savings on liability and health insurance costs.
Discussion among commissioners centered on reserve levels and budget timing. Chairman Bennett said adopting the budget now could require about $1.6 million from reserves. Commissioners noted a $2.8 million payment due from FEMA has not yet been received. Commissioner Randy Dixon stressed the county is fortunate to meet the statutory requirement to hold four months of cash on hand.
Rather than adopt the FY2026 budget, Commissioner David Lowman moved to table the matter and present it at the board's next meeting so department heads can be rebriefed; Commissioner Graham Raley seconded and the motion carried. County Manager Maddox said he will meet individually with department heads before the Dec. 2 meeting.
Earlier in the meeting the board adopted a resolution to approve the FY2025 tax levy; Commissioner Troy Mattox moved the resolution and Commissioner Randy Dixon seconded. The board adjourned at 6:20 p.m.
The board is scheduled to reconvene on Dec. 2, when the FY2026 budget will be returned for further consideration.
