02/27/2025
**Attention City of Okabena Residents**
The proposed project to install rural water, along with new water and sewer lines in town. As we all know, improvements are much needed for our water system, but the current pricing proposed could bankrupt the city and its residents—possibly even threaten the future of our town.
While we understand that action is necessary, the costs outlined in the proposal are simply unaffordable for most people. This project should be put on hold until we can explore more grant opportunities and fully understand the financial implications.
Maybe we need a special meeting?? This could provide us to discuss this issue, especially since there was no clear notification or mailers sent to residents about the proposal.
Here are the current figures under the proposal:
Water and Sewer Costs: $227.82/month raise, which totals $2,733 per year.
Property Tax Increase: For a home valued at $200,000, taxes will increase by $3,458.01, bringing total annual property taxes to $7,418 (up from the $3,960 I currently paid).
Tax's going up $3,458, and water and Sewer going up $2,733 resulting in an annual total of $6,191 or $516 per month—an huge burden for many. Businesses in the area will face even higher costs.
