AUGUSTA, Ga () – As the budget season begins, Augusta’s City Administrator warned that the fiscal situation is dire, likening it to a house on fire—a sentiment that city officials are beginning to feel.

“I wouldn’t say we’re completely engulfed in flames, but there’s certainly smoke, and the alarm bells are ringing. Now is the time to roll up our sleeves and tackle it head-on,” remarked Mayor Garnett Johnson.

In response, the administrator has put forth a budget plan to address a $21 million deficit. The proposal includes widespread spending cuts and a significant property tax increase of 31 percent.

This proposal follows recent introductions of new fees for street lighting and garbage collection, which have already impacted taxpayers this year.

“Being hit hard two consecutive years, is that considered fair?”

“No, it would not be. They need to hold off a couple years, at least give us a break. Give us a chance,” said Patrick Ford who was paying this year’s taxes at the Municipal Building.

The tax increase would bring in $16 million dollars and is a major part of eliminating the shortfall, but there is pushback.

“I don’t want to raise those taxes. We had a streetlight increase, we had a garbage increase and the last thing I want to do is for the constituents to feel the crunch,” said Commissioner Tony Lewis.

“I’m not going to support any tax increase,” said Mayor Johnson.

So that could result in deeper spending cuts and could cost jobs.

“If you do cuts, you lay off people.”

“You’re laying off people,” said Lewis.

“Do you want to do that?”

“You’re affecting folks livelihood, George. I don’t want to do that either,” said Lewis.

“I don’t want to see layoffs, but I do believe we need to create a more efficient government,” said the mayor.

Under state law, the commission must approve a balanced budget. The proposed one is balanced, but it doesn’t look to stay that way.