The Mt. Airy Town Council will convene for a called meeting on Friday, December 27, at 6:30 p.m. to discuss several important matters affecting the town and its residents. The primary agenda item will be a public hearing on the proposed 2025 operating budget. The council will present the budget for public review and allow residents to provide input before it is finalized.
HB 581 and FLOST
Following the budget hearing, the council will turn its attention to House Bill 581, also known as the Statewide Floating Homestead Exemption and Flexible Local Option Sales Tax (FLOST). This bill, signed into law by Governor Brian Kemp in April, was approved by Georgia voters in the November referendum.
The legislation is complex, with several key provisions affecting property taxes, local sales tax limits, and an “opt-out” provision for local governments. It also establishes a new FLOST. The Georgia Municipal Association (GMA) and the Association County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG) have released resources to help local governments and residents navigate the changes. The council will discuss the implications of these changes during the meeting.
Other business
In addition to the budget hearing and discussion on House Bill 581, the council will consider a resolution to join the First Responder PTSD Fund. This fund, created through House Bill 451 and signed into law this year, is part of the Ashley Wilson Act, named after a Gwinnett County police officer who experienced PTSD after witnessing her partner being shot in the line of duty and dying in her arms. The fund aims to provide financial support for first responders who suffer from PTSD due to the traumatic events they witness in their roles.
Finally, the council will finalize the allocation of its American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds. Local governments must submit their ARPA fund allocations by December 31, or they risk having the funds returned. The council will finalize its plans to ensure compliance with this federal deadline.
Residents of Mt. Airy are encouraged to attend the meeting and participate in the budget public hearing. The meeting will take place at the Town Hall located at 1231 Dicks Hill Parkway in Mt. Airy.
