Bartow County officials have outlined a $285.19 million total budget across all funds for fiscal year 2026, according to a newly released budget summary. The spending plan highlights continued investment in core services, utilities, capital improvements and public safety.
The county’s General Fund — which supports most day-to-day government operations — accounts for the largest share at $156.3 million. The next largest revenue source is the Bartow County Water Department, budgeted at $92.05 million, reflecting the scale of operations and infrastructure needs tied to water and sewer services.
Solid waste services are projected at $9.33 million, while the Capital Project Fund is set at $15.75 million, signaling ongoing investments in facilities and infrastructure.
Public safety-related funds make up a notable portion of the budget. The E-911 Fund is budgeted at $4.21 million, supporting emergency communications, and the County Jail Fund is allocated $300,000. Additional law enforcement-related funds include the S.O. Fed Confiscated Fund at $400,000 and the DTR State Confiscated Fund at nearly $288,000.
Tourism-related revenue through the Hotel/Motel Tax Fund is expected to generate $2.5 million, while specialized funds such as the Insurance Reserve Fund and OPEB Trust Fund are each set at $1.1 million.
Smaller allocations include the Law Library Fund at $98,000, the Juvenile Supervision Fees Fund at $17,500, and the Clerk of Court – Technology Fund at $130,000. Some grant-related and condemnation funds show no projected revenue for the year.
In addition to the annual operating budget, the county outlined a 2026 SPLOST Capital Project Length Budget totaling $308 million. SPLOST — a voter-approved Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax — is typically used to fund major capital improvements such as roads, public safety facilities and other long-term infrastructure projects.
Together, the figures reflect a continued emphasis on infrastructure, public utilities and public safety as county leaders prepare for the 2026 fiscal year.
