Miller’s proposed budget expands spending without raising millage rate

The proposed budget includes increased funding for public safety, recreation, housing initiatives and employee pay.

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) — Macon-Bibb Mayor Lester Miller presented his proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget Tuesday, outlining increased funding in several areas without a proposed millage rate increase.

According to Macon-Bibb County Government, the proposed budget includes increased funding for public safety, recreation, beautification, information technology and employee salaries and benefits.

County leaders say public safety funding has increased by more than $31 million since 2021, while recreation funding has increased by more than $3.3 million.

The county also mentioned investments tied to affordable housing, blight removal, road paving, violence prevention and mental health programs.

Miller said the proposed budget was built to maintain services and expand community priorities without increasing the tax burden on residents.

The county says the millage rate has decreased from 20.331 to 9.575 since 2021. The final millage recommendation will be made later this summer after the tax digest is completed.

A public hearing on the proposed budget is scheduled for June 2 at 5:30 p.m. in Commission Chambers at Macon City Hall.

41NBC’s Gena Tripp was at the meeting and will have additional coverage tonight on 41NBC News at 11.