Snellville council adopts $18.2 million FY2027 budget, keeps millage at four mills

The Snellville City Council unanimously adopted Ordinance 2026-02 on June 8, approving the city’s fiscal year 2026–2027 budget and setting it to take effect July 1.

City Manager Matt Pepper summarized the spending plan as an $18.2 million general-fund budget — an approximate 8% increase over the prior year — built on a millage rate of four mills, which the council said would be maintained for a fifth consecutive year. Pepper told the council the budget process began in January and includes revenue projections from property taxes, franchise taxes, building permits and alcohol taxes.

Pepper said the capital plan includes a five-year investment program totaling about $31.9 million, funded largely through the city’s Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) proceeds, and listed projects such as the Brisco Park Community Center under construction, repairs at the city recycle center, market-building tenant work and software/HVAC upgrades at city facilities.

Council discussion focused on staffing and salary increases. The mayor and several council members said recent expenditure growth largely reflects pay increases to remain competitive, particularly for police and entry-level public-works and parks positions, and to staff the new community center. Council Member CJ Pitt said the budget’s emphasis on pay increases was intended to help employees reduce the need for multiple jobs.

With a motion, second and a voice/hand vote, the council recorded six in favor and none opposed and declared the ordinance adopted. The budget document was placed on the city website for public review; the city manager reiterated the balanced-budget requirement under Georgia law.