With two of three public hearings behind them, the Jenkins County Commissioners are two-thirds of the way toward implementing a 2.53 percent property tax increase for the 2005-2006 fiscal year that began July 1. The third and last public hearing is scheduled for 7 p.m. Thursday, Aug. 4, in the courtroom of the Jenkins County Courthouse.

Approximately 12 local citizens attended the first hearing held 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 27. Most of those present voiced concern over a $60 annual waste management fee that the county approved for each residence and business located within the county and city. The fee will appear on the December tax bills of property owners.

Commission chairman James Henry explained that the fee is necessary to assist with funding of the county landfill. In the past, the landfill has been funded with revenues derived from the Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (SPLOST.) Due to changes in the way SPLOST may be legally used, however, it has become necessary for the county to fund the landfill from its general operating budget.

The cost of operating the county’s landfill is estimated at $383,000 for fiscal year 2005-2006, approximately $176,000 more than the amount spent the previous year. Implementation of the waste management fee is expected to generate approximately $180,000.

"I think this is just a ‘today’ fix," commented Dale Wiggins. "I’ve never heard of another idea except get more money, and more money will solve the problem."

"The reason you hear that is because it is an immediate need," responded chairman Henry.

The second public hearing held 9 a.m. Friday, July 29, was attended by only one citizen, Jimmy Menard, who expressed concern over the proposed tax increase.

"Every time you’re losing money, you just jack-up the property tax," Menard complained.

Commissioner Tommy Lane responded, "I was just like you when I was on the other side of the fence. Until I came on this board, I didn’t comprehend how much this county has to do to be functional."

It was also pointed out that the county has implemented a plan of action to reduce its debts and has not had to borrow money to operate on for the past two years.

The commissioners are seeking to set the 2005-2006 millage rate at 15.75 mils for both city and county residents. The millage rate for 2004-2005 was 16.55 mils for city residents and 14.9 mils for county residents.