06-09-2026 Mayor & Commission Adoption of FY27 Operating & Capital Budget and Millage Rate

The Athens-Clarke County Mayor and Commission held a meeting on June 9, 2026, primarily to adopt the FY27 Operating and Capital Budget and set the millage rate. A significant portion of the discussion focused on explaining the structure and funding of enterprise funds, which include the airport, landfill, water and sewer, solid waste, and storm water operations. These funds are supported by user fees rather than tax dollars and are used to finance both operating costs and capital improvement projects, such as a $20 million sewer rehabilitation initiative. The commission also discussed the use of Flock Safety cameras, addressing public concerns about privacy and data security. Additionally, the commission approved a resolution to place a referendum on the ballot for a local option sales tax (LOST) to generate additional revenue, with some members emphasizing the need for community education on the tax's impact. Lastly, the commission approved sending a proposed amendment on inclusionary zoning and commercial district regulations to the planning commission for further review, aiming to generate more revenue for the housing fund. Motions to adopt the budget ordinance and related measures were passed, and the meeting included discussions on special event funding and staff compensation adjustments.