Macon-Bibb commissioners talk budget cuts

MACON, Georgia (41NBC/WMGT) – Macon-Bibb commissioners are facing up to a $10 million loss for the 2016 Fiscal Year Budget.

Local leaders say they’re committed to removing the former city’s millage rate and creating an equal tax base for all residents. Macon-Bibb County spokesperson Chris Floore tells 41NBC that would mean a loss of $8 to $10 million in revenue.

The commission must pass a balanced budget. It currently has a budget of $159,018,465. For Fiscal Year 2016, Floore says the budget can not be more than $153,000,000. With the loss in tax revenue, the commission must reduce its spending.

Some of the proposed reduction in expenses presented during Tuesday’s work session are layoffs, reduce employer health care contributions, increase employee retirement contributions, attrition, and unfunded vacancies.

There are 360 employees who are eligible to retire. Floore says salaries and benefits make up about 80% of the general fund. The commissioners looked over retirement incentive proposals during the work session.

Floore says the county departments will work with the commissioners as a budget is put together.

Mayor Robert Reichert is expected to present the balanced budget to the commission in May.