Barnesville adopts FY 2024–25 budget, adjusts facility fees and opens Splash Pad

Barnesville’s council adopted the 2024–25 operating budget, set a 2024 ad valorem tax rate and approved updates to facility fee schedules that cover the Civic Center, Depot Plaza and other rental spaces.

Acting City Manager Tammy D. York presented a proposed budget of $18,237,881, noting modest increases in the General and Electric funds and an 8% increase in the Water Fund to support debt coverage. On Sept. 5 the council set the millage rate at 2.876 mills and later adopted Ordinance No. 615 to finalize the budget.

Council also approved Ordinance No. 613 adjusting facility and parks fees and adopted operational changes for the Splash Pad, which opened with a ribbon-cutting in spring. City staff reported progress on downtown signage, park maintenance and an outreach program for summer youth activities at the E.P. Roberts Center.

Council members repeatedly emphasized communicating rate and fee changes to residents. Councilmember Christopher Hightower asked that the Splash Pad remain free for young children during its first season; York said staff would accommodate outreach and waiver requests where feasible.

Next steps: staff will publish the adopted budget, update fee schedules on the city website, and continue community outreach regarding rate and fee impacts.