City approves pay raises, $17M project funding
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JACKSON, Tenn. — Jackson municipal employees are expected to get a raise. The city council on Thursday approved the first reading of next year‘s budget. They also agreed to borrow $17.4 million for capital projects across the city over the next three years. Some of the projects include road repairs, park upgrades, fire equipment and police cars. “Public safety is critical,” Jackson Mayor Jerry Gist said. “That’s the function of government. Should be the first priority.” Councilwoman Vicky Foote did not attend Thursday‘s special called meeting. Councilman Scott Conger cast the only “no” vote. “I think the city overall, we need to do a better job of financially planning,” he said. “We can’t borrow our way to sustainability.” Of the loan money, $360,000 will help pay for a new fire truck. “We’re riding trucks that are in excess of 20 to 25 years old,” Jackson Fire Chief Max Stewart said. “When you‘re running trucks that age, then your repair costs go up, so it just makes sense to try to get some new equipment in.” Council members also unanimously approved next year‘s budget, which will include a 3 percent cost of living raise for city employees. “Our employees work hard, some of them around the clock,” Conger said. “They deserve it and we’re proud that we can give it to them,” Councilman Harvey Buchanan said. The council voted to keep the tax rate the same. “We have $22 million in reserve funds,” Buchanan said. “The city is in good, stable financial shape.” Gist said the city has money set aside to pay back the $17.4 million loan. “We have a good, strong fund balance and we have the means to pay the money back,” he said. “At the end of three years, we’ll owe the same thing we owe today.” Council members plan to vote on the budget a second and final time July 7.
