Commissioners approve $99.6 million budget for Columbia County

Commissioners approve $99.6 million budget for Columbia County

Columbia County employees will get a raise after a $99,592,241 budget was approved by commissioners for the upcoming fiscal year. The 7.891 ad valorem rate is up slightly from 7.853 approved in 2008, but is still anticipated to bring in less revenue due to the additional tax exemptions approved by voters.

Employees will receive a flat raise of $2,039 a move suggested by Commissioner Stephen Bailey who noted the across the board raise would benefit lower-income employees. Unionized employees must still negotiate and approve the offer.