Housing crunch, drought affect city budget

Like just about everyone else, the City of Senoia has felt the pinch of the declining economy.

The city has had a hiring freeze, leaving one position vacant on the public works and police departments. And this year’s proposed general fund budget reflects a 1.78 percent decrease in spending, with an 8.78 percent decrease in the water and sewer budget.

The general fund budget totals just under $2.11 million and the water and sewer budget is at $1.5 million. A first reading of the budget was approved unanimously by the City Council Monday night.

The general fund was hit by the housing crisis, which resulted in an estimated 30 new homes coming on-line this year instead of the original projection of 80 homes, said City Administrator Richard Ferry. City departments also had to adjust to the higher gasoline prices earlier this year.

The water and sewer revenues were also affected by reduced water usage that has continued with the drought as the city met its 10 percent reduction requirements from the Georgia Environmental Protection Division, Ferry said.

Ferry said city staff has performed admirably by maintaining service levels despite the personnel losses.

“The employees of the city need to be commended for this action,” Ferry said. “All departments, especially public works and the police department, are severely understaffed and need help.”

Councilman Larry Owens said it speaks well of the city’s employees that despite the hard economic times “I don’t think we’ve seen any drop off in services ... and we ask a lot of them through the year.”

Mayor Robert Belisle singled out Ferry for his leadership.

“We’re thankful that you’re here,” Belisle said.

Ferry said the town’s hiring of a downtown development coordinator will help fill vacant storefronts downtown and bring new business to the city. He also noted that the city no longer is paying for operation of the library and in turn has better resources for the library. Coweta County recently assumed the library operations and is funding the library.

Ferry said he strongly encourages residents to support local businesses and shop in Coweta whenever possible.

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