September 03, 2008
www.northfulton.com
FULTON COUNTY -- Gearing up for next year's budget, Fulton County Manager Zachary Williams is keeping a close eye on departments.
A recent mid-year budget report revealed that revenue projections are approximately $28.7 million less than were originally anticipated back in January, according to Director of Finance Patrick O'Conner.
"What actions are we taking now to change this year's spending," asked Commissioner Nancy Boxill at the report on Aug. 20.
In response, Williams has asked that each department identify additional efficiencies that can be done to maintain or increase the county's projected General Fund Balance of 8.3 percent. Those things to be considered include collaborations between departments and the elimination of dulplication among departments.
A large percentage of the revenue gap is represented by the State of Georgia Homestead Tax Relief Grant, a total of $12.7 million, which is being withheld by the State pending the 2009 General Assembly Session. Approximately $3 million of the County's total revenue gap is due to lower sales tax revenue. The terms of the County's Temporary Collection Order for property taxes are also a factor, since properties under appeal are billed at previous years' values.
"We are confident that by taking a measured approach to our budget for the remainder of this year, we will lay a strong foundation for our 2009 budget," said Williams.
Christine Foster
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