DEMOREST — The Demorest City Council held its final public hearing Tuesday night on the city’s proposed 2026 budget and millage rate, but no residents spoke during the session.
The council has tentatively adopted a 7.16-mill rate, which will require an 8.6 percent increase in property taxes over the rollback rate of 6.593 mills. The proposed increase equals about $28.35 more for a homestead property valued at $175,000 and $39.69 for non-homestead property of the same value.
City leaders say the adjustment will support the 2026 general-fund budget, which maintains essential city services while addressing rising costs in personnel, public safety, and infrastructure.
During the regular meeting following the hearing, the council approved its yearly mandated certificate of deposit with Traditions Bank to bolster city reserves and unanimously accepted a Land and Water Conservation Fund grant to support local recreation improvements.
The council also tabled site plans for city hall renovations, saying more information is needed before moving forward with design or construction.
The final of three mandated public hearings will take place October 30 and council members are expected to take action on the budget and millage rate following the hearing.
