Newberry sets preliminary millage at 6.0623 mills for FY2026 budget notices

The Newberry City Commission voted unanimously on July 28, 2025, to set the preliminary millage rate at the adjusted rollback rate of 6.0623 mills, the rate that will be used to advertise proposed property taxes and for TRIM notices mailed to property owners.

City staff reminded the commission that the preliminary rate is the maximum rate the commission may adopt for the upcoming budget and that the commission can lower the rate at subsequent budget hearings in September. Dallas Lee described the proposal as providing “a little bit of wiggle room” in case the commission decides to adjust the rate before final adoption. The commission set workshop and hearing dates; staff noted the notices to taxpayers will be sent in August.

Commission discussion included a question about the maximum allowable millage (a commissioner asked about a 10-mill cap requiring a unanimous vote) and a suggestion to round to 6.1 mills if desired; commissioners did not amend the staff recommendation. The motion to set the preliminary rate was moved by Commissioner Clark and seconded by Commissioner Maison; the vote was unanimous.

Why it matters: Setting the preliminary millage rate starts the formal budget-notification process and sets an advertising cap for property-tax notices. The rate will be revisited during budget workshop and hearings before final adoption.