Walker County lands bank loans to make it through 2018

LAFAYETTE, Georgia (WDEF) – Walker County is going to the bank to keep the government going through the end of the year.

Commissioner Shannon Whitfield signed resolutions on Thursday approving loans from The Bank of LaFayette and First Volunteer Bank.

The short term loans worth a total of $6 million will help fully fund operations until more revenue comes in.

 “We originally thought we would need to do this in May. We’ve gone three months longer than anticipated, which means we’ve had good money management. Our entire county government team has committed to make sure every citizen’s dollar is spent wisely,” said Commissioner Shannon Whitfield.

Back in January, the county was short $8 million in operating expenses for 2018.

“We are getting our financial house in order and Walker County is earning its credibility back.”

 The county has cut expenses and stretched their dollars to reduce the shortfall this year.

The commissioner has vowed to cut the use of loans by $2 million each year until the county debt is paid off.

“I cannot say enough positive things about The Bank of LaFayette and First Volunteer Bank,” added Commissioner Whitfield. “They both stepped up last year and stood in the gap for this county when everyone else was running for cover. Their boards took a risk, but they also took pride in their community by doing their part to support the direction the county is moving in.”