The Mt. Airy Town Council is scheduled to hold its second public hearing on the proposed 2025 budget and discuss the town’s participation in a fire consolidation feasibility study from Habersham County during their meeting on Monday, January 6.
Budget public hearing
The proposed general fund budget for the town of Mt. Airy for 2025 is $500,533. While the budget has increased, it remains balanced following discussions at a special called meeting last month. One significant addition is the inclusion of ARPA (American Rescue Plan Act) funds to support public safety salaries. The public is encouraged to attend the hearing and provide input before the council considers adopting the proposed budget during the regular meeting.
Fire consolidation study
In addition to the budget hearing, the town council will consider a resolution from Habersham County to participate in a fire consolidation feasibility study. Mt. Airy does not have its own fire department but contracts with the city of Cornelia for fire protection. The four other cities in the county that operate paid fire departments have already agreed to participate in the study. The council will decide whether to join them in exploring potential benefits, cost savings, and operational improvements related to fire service consolidation.
Other business
The council will also make appointments to several key positions for 2025. These appointments include the town auditor, municipal judge, city attorney, Mayor Pro-Tem, and members of various committees that provide guidance and support to the council and town staff.
As part of their regular meeting, the council will also set the qualifying fees for the town’s upcoming November 2025 elections. The qualifying fee for Mayor will be $132.60, while council seats up for election will have a qualifying fee of $129.00.
Additionally, the council will review a proposed local maintenance and improvement grant (LMIG) project for 2025, which includes road improvements on Lakeside Drive.
The Mt. Airy Town Council will meet for the public hearing and regular meeting on Monday, January 6, at 7:00 p.m. The meeting will be held at Mt. Airy Town Hall, located at 1231 Dicks Hill Parkway in Mt. Airy.
