The Alpharetta City Council Monday night gave final approval to the city’s FY 2016 budget, but delayed approving a millage rate ordinance because of unexpectedly good tax revenue news.
City officials had prepared the budget estimating a 3 percent growth in the city’s tax digest but when Fulton County tax officials delivered the digest late — just this month instead of the usual April or May — the increase totaled 8 percent, said Assistant City Administrator James Drinkard.
City officials had planned to maintain the current 5.750 millage rate, but will now hold three public hearings on the matter, as the rate could be rolled back due to the brightened revenue picture. Those hearings have been set for July 13 and 20. City officials said the revenue could also be earmarked for capital projects.
The now-approved 2016 budget totals $96.6 million, including a $63 million general fund operating budget. It includes $8.9 million in capital projects, ranging from road, sidewalk and intersection improvements to technology and fleet vehicle replacement. General fund operating expenses are up 3.5 percent from 2015, due to rising insurance costs and other factors.
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