A public hearing on the fiscal year 1999 budget promises to

occupy the lion's share of time at Thursday's regular meeting of the

City Council in Peachtree City.

A total budget of $19,771,566 is proposed for the coming

year, including "carryover funds" from last year, according to

assistant city manager Joe Morton. Last year's total budget

was $18,742,839.

Morton says the city's operating budget will increase

from $9,571,493 to $10,179,154, but revenues also are expected to

increase.

While exact figures are not available pending property tax

re-assessment appeals, Peachtree City's ad valorem tax

revenues are expected to increase by 12 percent to $3,516,448. After a

recent re-assessment, Fayette County has received some

2000 appeals about property values, Morton noted.

Local option sales tax money will be up by 5 percent

to $4,531,454, the largest income-generator for Peachtree City.

Departmental budgets mostly reflect increases, with the

largest increases in library expenditures and the fire department

allocation. Pay raises are in order for most city employees, and

federal grant monies will help hire five new police officers for

community-oriented duties.

The council also will call a special meeting to set the

millage rate. Other agenda items include discussion of the city's

insurance program and awards and recognitions.

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