Suwanee OKs 2014 Budget and Capital Spending Plan

The meeting was as quick and efficient as the process itself, as Suwanee City Council on Tuesday (June 25) approved the Fiscal Year 2014 budget.

Council members quickly approved the $12.1 million spending plan, which goes into effect July 1, and the 2014-18 Capital Improvement Plan.

The new Suwanee budget, which is slightly higher than the current budget, assumes a tax rate of 4.93 mills, same as the current rate. The new rate would be approved in August.

“As the economy begins to improve, we feel good that our budget remains stable and maintains our quality service levels,” City Manager Marty Allen said. “This budget and Fitch Ratings’ recent affirmation of Suwanee’s AA+ rating are good indicators of Suwanee’s fiscal strength and stability.”

The FY 2014 budget funds a new police detective as well as a part-time equipment operator in Public Works. It also covers 9 percent of increased health insurance costs, according to city documents.

The five-year capital spending plan is about $18.7 million. Almost half of that (48 percent) is earmarked for transportation.

Officials noted that most of the the capital projects are still in the concept stage, and so costs are estimates only.

For a look at the budget in detail (from a draft document), click here.

-- How do you feel about Suwanee's financial situation? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Don’t miss any Suwanee news. Like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.