December 5-- Montgomery County's operating budget for 2018 is increasing by about $96,000.
County Manager Brandon Braddy reports the proposed county budget next year is $4,211,702 compared to $4,115,730 in 2017. He attributes the increases to several factors.
2018 Budget Increases
Sheriff’s Office
- Sheriff’s Office originally requested three new deputies. The Commissioners and Sheriff agreed to fund two positions at a total cost of $86,880
2% Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) Pay Raise
- 2% COLA mandated by state for elected officials
- Commissioners recommend 2% COLA for all County employees
- Increase totals to $43,300
Elections
- $25,000 to cover elections in 2018
Insurance Increase
- $5,000 increase in Property & Liability Insurance
Superior Court
- $9,500 increase for Superior Court Judges in the Oconee Judicial Circuit
EMS Contract
$8,500 increase in the EMS contract with Toombs County
The budget increase coupled with a loss of county revenue caused the Board of Commissioners to increase the county's property tax rate by one mil, according to Braddy.
Reasons for Losses in County Revenue
2017 Tax Digest
- The 2017 Net Taxable Digest was reduced by $2.5 Million from last year
- There was a reduction in $2.0 Million in Motor Vehicle values
- Timber values reduced by $1.9 Million
- Exemptions increased by $1.5 Million
Sales Tax Collections
- Local Option Sales Tax is averaging $2,000 less per month
Fines & Forfeitures
Projecting a $36,000 reduction in Fines & Forfeitures over a two-year period for years 2016 & 2017