CLARKESVILLE — The Clarkesville City Council is expected to consider amendments to the city’s 2025 budget Monday night, including changes that could require the use of prior-year reserves to cover major expenditures associated with the former courthouse property and demolition costs.
Council members are scheduled to meet at 6 p.m. June 1 at City Hall. Mayor Pro Tem Angelia Kiker will preside over the meeting.
The council’s only item of new business is Resolution 2026-4, which would amend the city’s 2025 budget.
During a May 27 work session, Interim City Manager Julie Poole told council members the proposed amendment was still being finalized but would address several significant expenses not included in the original budget.
“What I passed out to you all is a preliminary budget amendment,” Poole said.
According to Poole, the amendment outlines potential draws from prior-year reserves and reflects several major cost overruns, including a $200,000 down payment on the former Habersham County courthouse property and approximately $201,000 in demolition expenses.
Poole emphasized the figures were preliminary and subject to revision before formal council consideration.
The budget amendment comes as city leaders continue planning for several major projects, including redevelopment of the city-owned property at 555 Monroe St., construction of a new fire station and improvements to the city’s wastewater treatment plant.
Mayor Franklin Brown told council members the three projects would move forward simultaneously and described them as critical investments in Clarkesville’s future. Brown said Councilwoman Leigh Johnston would focus on the wastewater and fire station projects, while Councilman Blake Rainwater would assist with wastewater planning and Brown would focus on the Monroe Street development.
Department reports included in Monday’s agenda packet show the Clarkesville Fire Department responded to 86 calls during April, including 54 emergency medical calls, four fires and two motor vehicle accidents.
The city’s Main Street program reported three new businesses opening or changing ownership during April: BP Clarkesville 442 Inc., Oasis of Clarkesville and Provision Design. The department also reported involvement in 35 downtown events with an estimated combined attendance of 890 people.
Planning and development staff reported continued construction activity at the future Waffle House location and noted growing interest in residential construction within the Village Crest subdivision. Staff said the restaurant could open as early as June.
Following public comment Monday night, council members could enter executive session before adjournment.
Don’t miss what everyone in town is talking about.
Join 4,000+ locals and choose our free newsletter covering news, events and the stories shaping our region.
