Few Changes Planned for 2012 Dacula Budget

With less than $58,000 set aside for contingencies, 2012 could be a “lean year” according to Dacula City Accountant Rex Milsap.

Milsap reviewed the proposed 2012 budget and the amended 2011 budget with council members during the Nov. 22 public budget hearing.

Though no major new expenditures are planned in the upcoming year, costs for insurance and utilities are projected to increase while property tax revenues are once again expected to remain flat. For the upcoming year, the city expects to receive $550,000 in property tax revenue, which is up only slightly from the $535,000 the city collected in 2011. The city also expects some increases in franchise fees, alcoholic beverage excise taxes, permits and other fees. In total, revenues for 2012 are projected to be $2.22 million.

The 2012 budget does not include any pay increases for city personnel. The only major new expenditures are $25,000 for an accounting software upgrade and $3,800 for traffic counting equipment. The other line item changes reflect increased costs, Mayor Jimmy Wilbanks said.

The council also reviewed the 2011 amended budget. The city plans to revise the budget upward from $2.12 million to $2.43 million due primarily to the inclusion of funds associated with a Community Block Development Grant the city received. The amended budget, if approved by council, will also include a one-time, 2 percent bonus for city employees.

The council will vote on the proposed 2012 budget and the amended 2011 budget during the next regular city council meeting which is scheduled for Thursday, Dec. 1 at 7 p.m. The council meets at Dacula City Hall, 442 Harbins Road.