McNairy Co. Commission meets to discuss budget concerns

SELMER, Tenn. — McNairy County Commissioners met before a packed house in Selmer, Monday night, in a contentious meeting as the county faces growing budget concerns.

Commissioners voted on two hot button issues to try to reduce a $129,000 budget shortfall.  A $40 wheel tax fell short by just one vote.  And, members largely opposed a 10-percent increase to the property tax.

Taxpayers came out to make sure their commissioners knew where they stood.  A majority opposed both measures.  “We are your employers,” Greg Holt said to the commissioners.  “We are not your employees.  You are not doing what we want.”

County leaders said this has put them in a tough spot with a budget due by July 1.  “This is a pretty big setback for the county, as far as moving forward,” said Mayor Ronnie Brooks.  “It’s going to eliminate a lot of opportunities for us.”

The mayor said the county will no have to redo the current budget.  He added, they’ll have to consider other options that may reduce services and employees.