Smyrna's FY2026 Budget Approved with 8.4% Reduction, Totaling $113 Million

A New Fiscal Year, A New Budget:

Smyrna’s budget for FY2026 has been officially approved, presenting a collection of numbers that impact the community. The finalized budget totals $113,016,519, achieving an 8.4% reduction from the revised FY2025 budget. This budget was greenlit on June 2, following a presentation by Budget Officer Landon O’Neal during the Committee of the Whole meeting on May 1 and a public hearing on May 19.

Revenue and Spending Shifts:

The financial outline for the new fiscal year highlights a $10.3 million decrease from last year, accompanied by several noteworthy changes. Real Property Tax revenue is predicted to decrease marginally by 1.0%, while Sanitation Charges are increasing by 3.5%. Other notable increases include a 7.2% rise in the Insurance Premium Tax, a 5.8% upsurge in Franchise Tax, and a 5.1% increase in funds from HB489 intergovernmental sources.

On the expense side, the budget designates $824,000 for a General Fund contingency, $6 million for health insurance (with $5.4 million sourced from the General Fund), and $3.78 million for retirement (with $3.4 million from the General Fund). Projects have funding too, with $200,000 each for updates to the comprehensive plan and the stormwater master plan. Capital projects focus primarily on utilities, with allocations of $2.046 million from the General Fund, $4.017 million from Water Sewer, and $1.539 million from Storm Water for new developments.

Why It Matters:

For residents keeping track of city services, the budget introduces critical changes that affect everyday life. Adjustments in fees for various services—from Community Development to Water/Sewer Utility—mean that the financial impact will vary among different households. The budget also adds two new positions: an HR & Risk Management Specialist and a Parks Maintenance Technician.

The city is also addressing its debt obligations, with scheduled debt payments for FY26 amounting to $9,487,853, funded in part by the General Fund, SPLOST, and other sources, ensuring continued fiscal stability.

Moving Forward:

Now that the budget is finalized, Smyrna residents and businesses should start look for the changes that will unfold over the coming year, reflecting the city's dedication to prudent fiscal management in a growing community.