There’s a new annexation report from City Manager Peggy Merriss now posted on the city’s website, along with a colorful map.
In the report, our city manager lays out the pros and cons of annexation (with residential/commercial mix and just commercial) in detail and states that the commission has to make their decision at the November 17th commission meeting.
Some key takeaways from my first read-through…
- If Decatur does not annex, the city estimates the millage rate will go up between .5 point and 1.5 points assuming “modest” 3% growth in the next two years.
- The city doesn’t need to hold a referendum if the annexation area is over 50% commercial.
- Forrest Hills is much more in favor (3/4 in favor with 50% response rate) of being annexed than Midway Woods (1/2 in favor with 18% response rate)
- The Revenues vs. Expenditures on page 6 are a must-read. As I read it, the commercial/residential mix provides the city with more excess cash, than just commercial…which seems to go against what many (including myself) originally assumed.
This whole document is a must read for the entire voting public. Take a look and let’s hear your comments.