The city of Avondale Estates has hired an experienced city finance officer to handle its money.

Kenneth Turner will oversee the city's books and accounting. He had been working as controller for the Atlanta City Employees Credit Union, where he was responsible for payroll, investments and compliance issues. Prior to that, Turner worked as the finance director in the city of Kennesaw for four years.

"We are just thrilled to have him," said Mayor Ed Rieker. "He is already hard at work."

Turner takes over just as the city announces its new budget and what could be a nearly 6 percent property tax increase.

Because of the potential for a higher millage rate, the city must hold three public hearings on the issue. The first is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. May 14 at city hall, 21 North Avondale Plaza.

The final two meetings will be held at 10 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. on May 19.

By advertising for a 5.96 percent increase in taxes, the city can adopt that rate or anything lower, including a rollback. The proposed increase will cover raises for city employees, as well as the painting and installation of a new roof on city hall, Rieker said.