HIAWASSEE, Ga. – Hiawassee City Council held the first of two readings on the proposed 2019-2020 municiple budget April 2 during their regular session. A public hearing will be held Thursday, April 18, at 6 p.m. The proposed budget is available for review at Hiawassee City Hall.

The full council approved all agenda items, including the $384,000 purchase of a screw press “sludge remover” for the water treatment plant, a contract with Penn Credit to collect outstanding city debt, and a resolution to transfer employee retirement funds from Georgia Municiple Association to One America.

Regarding the Penn Credit debt collection, Hiawassee Mayor Liz Ordiales informed that approximately $200,000 in unpaid property taxes are due to the city. Penn Credit will retain 17.5 percent of collected funds.

(L-R) Hiawassee Councilwoman Nancy Noblet, City Clerk Bonnie Kendrick, Councilwoman Amy Barrett, Mayor Liz Ordiales, Councilman Kris Berrong (Not pictured: Councilwomen Anne Mitchell and Patsy Owens)

Additionally, Hiawassee City Council approved a memorandum of agreement for the Main Street Affiliate program will which allow the city options for grants at no cost to taxpayers. Economic Developer Denise McKay attended the meeting.

Hiawassee City Council will meet for their work session Monday, April 29, at 6 p.m.