City of Young Harris Highlights Finances and Upcoming Job Fair in Latest Newsletter

The City of Young Harris recently shared insights into its financial operations and announced an upcoming job fair in its latest newsletter, offering residents a glimpse into how the city manages its budget and opportunities for employment.

According to the newsletter, municipal budgets in Young Harris operate differently from private budgets, requiring a balanced financial plan each fiscal year. The city relies on three main funds: the general fund, the water fund, and the sewer fund, with the latter two being "enterprise funds" that are self-sustaining through their own revenues. General fund revenues primarily come from property taxes, franchise and sales taxes, licenses, permits, fees, and grants, totaling less than $30,000 annually in property taxes. Notably, the city council has not raised property taxes in several years and has even "rolled back" rates as required by law when receiving special revenue funds. Expenditures from the general fund cover administrative costs, highways, streets, parks, and economic development.

The newsletter also details additional revenue sources, including the Special Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST) and Local Option Sales Tax (LOST). SPLOST, a 1% sales tax voted on by residents for up to five years, funds specific projects like parks, schools, roads, and public facilities, but cannot be used for operating expenses or maintenance. LOST, another 1% sales tax on retail, rental, storage, use, or consumption of tangible personal property and services, is shared between counties and cities based on population to help offset property taxes.

The budget process begins as early as August each year, with city officials gathering input from departments and stakeholders to assess community needs and set priorities. The proposed budget is reviewed multiple times, including at public hearings, and must be approved no later than December 1 for the budget year running from January 1 to December 31. Monthly financial reviews by the council and mayor ensure accountability and stability.

In addition to financial updates, the newsletter announced a job fair scheduled for April 3, 2025, from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Towns County High School Gymnasium, located at 1400 US-76, Hiawassee, GA 30546. Sponsored by Towns County High School CTAE and Lake Chatuge Chamber of Commerce, the event aims to connect job seekers with local opportunities. For more information, interested individuals can contact 706-896-4966. The City of Young Harris will also be present, offering positions such as Deputy City Clerk and Public Works Assistant. Further details on these openings are available on the city’s website.