Houston County and Warner Robins set to make budget decisions

HOUSTON COUNTY, Ga. — If you need a new sofa, a new bed or a new piece of art for your home, Phillips Furniture on Watson Boulevard welcomes you.

“We have free local delivery, we have good prices and good sales, and we love our customers,” shared Linda Lombardi.

Lombardi is the manager of the furniture store. She has worked for almost 40 years to furnish homes at an affordable price. Lombardi hopes to save some money this fall when property tax bills come out.

Warner Robins and Houston County could adopt their 2025 budgets. Warner Robins projects a budget of $159.7 million, lower than last year. Houston County is budgeting $181 million, which is an increase. Next week in Houston County, final spending decisions could be approved.

Earlier this month, the Warner Robins City Council announced its goal to provide relief.

“They all said they wanted to consider moving back,” Mayor LaRhonda Patrick told us at the June 3 council meeting.

This would mean that the taxes you pay to Warner Robins would remain about the same.

“It’s important with everything that’s been hyped up lately. A little light at the end of the tunnel, so we appreciate it,” Lombardi said.

Lombardi said she likes how the city plans to use its $159 million budget. They spend $36 million on public safety.

“It will provide more protection for citizens so that they feel safer here, that they want to live here,” she said.

Lombardi says she’s already seen improvements in crime prevention, blight cleanup and more. She hopes to see more changes on the streets.

“We’re excited to see Commercial Circle come back to life, and the new businesses and people moving there will need furniture,” Lombardi said.

Warner Robins has more than $22 million in capital funds and $3 million in development that could go toward it.

Additionally, the mayor says he has set aside money for community initiatives, such as helping with customer service.

“It shows our constituents that we are trying to do something new that will directly benefit them outside of normal business operations,” Patrick explained.

Lombardi says she believes the projects will continue to have significant long-term economic impacts.

“I think the new mayor and all the staff are doing a great job trying to keep up and make improvements,” she said.

If you wish to appeal your new property tax assessment, you have until July 1st.

Warner Robins could give final approval after public meetings Monday at noon and 4 p.m.

Houston County will meet to discuss the budget Tuesday at the Warner Robins County Annex at 5 p.m.