By KAY S. PEDROTTI
Staff Writer
A public hearing on the fiscal year 1999 budget promises to
occupy the lion's share of time at Thursday's regular meeting of the
City Council in Peachtree City.
A total budget of $19,771,566 is proposed for the coming
year, including "carryover funds" from last year, according to
assistant city manager Joe Morton. Last year's total budget
was $18,742,839.
Morton says the city's operating budget will increase
from $9,571,493 to $10,179,154, but revenues also are expected to
increase.
While exact figures are not available pending property tax
re-assessment appeals, Peachtree City's ad valorem tax
revenues are expected to increase by 12 percent to $3,516,448. After a
recent re-assessment, Fayette County has received some
2000 appeals about property values, Morton noted.
Local option sales tax money will be up by 5 percent
to $4,531,454, the largest income-generator for Peachtree City.
Departmental budgets mostly reflect increases, with the
largest increases in library expenditures and the fire department
allocation. Pay raises are in order for most city employees, and
federal grant monies will help hire five new police officers for
community-oriented duties.
The council also will call a special meeting to set the
millage rate. Other agenda items include discussion of the city's
insurance program and awards and recognitions.