Gwinnett Daily Post

STONE MOUNTAIN -- Southern Gwinnett business leaders have voted to keep the millage rate of the county's first community improvement district the same.

The Evermore CID board voted to continue a 5-mill rate for the 2012 tax year, during a special-called meeting Monday.

Because of declining property values, the CID expects to receive about 8 percent less revenues, but the quasi-governmental association revised its budget to make up for the change, said board Chairman Chris Garner.

"We will have to tighten our belts and focus on the services we provide to ensure that we deliver the best possible services for the greatest value to the property owners," Garner said.

The Evermore CID, which is centered along the U.S. Highway 78 corridor from Snellville to Stone Mountain, has maintained a 5-mill rate since 2007, with the exception of 2009, when the rate was reduced to 4 mills.