Chatham County finance staff reports second-quarter revenues, notes ongoing sewer fund deficit

County finance staff presented the second-quarter FY25–26 financial report, summarized collections and highlighted a continuing deficit in the sewer fund.

Miss Davis told commissioners that, as of Dec. 31, 2025, General Fund revenues were roughly $174.2 million and expenditures about $139.4 million. Staff also reported SPLOST collections and that total cash and investments were about $720.7 million, with approximately $255.0 million in the General Fund. Miss Davis noted building-safety and parking-garage funds have improved, while the sewer fund remains in the red.

When commissioners pressed about the sewer fund, Davis said the county had implemented phased rate increases recommended by financial advisors (increments were implemented in recent years) but operational and capital costs have continued to pressure the fund. Staff said the county has contributed roughly $7 million from the General Fund to support sewer operations and currently holds a roughly $8 million fund balance with about $2.5 million designated for capital infrastructure.

Commissioners used the financial briefing to raise a regional water-authority idea and to urge stronger coordination on water and sewer planning as a driver of growth.

What’s next: staff will continue to monitor the sewer fund and return recommendations for long-term financial balance and any required budget actions.