MEMPHIS, Tenn. — While you were asleep, county commissioners worked late into the night, passing the budget for the upcoming fiscal year.
Some good news for homeowners in Shelby County is that there will not be a property tax increase.
Commissioners wrapped up just after 11 p.m. as they worked through a 72-item agenda. Mayor Lee Harris’ $1.7 billion spending plan ultimately passed.
The current tax rate in Shelby County is $3.39 per $100 of assessed value. Harris’ proposal would bring it down to $2.69.
“The change in the tax rate has been negative two cents over the last 18 years. We have not made significant investments in our communities when you think about it from that perspective for over 18 years,” said Commissioner Shante Avant.
“I do not think this is the time with the inflation rate and with the struggles our county is already having. I do think we have a bright future. I feel certain we do. I think we’re gonna have more revenue next year, but I would say it would be wise to accept the budget as it is and move forward next year with higher funding levels,” said Commissioner Brandon Morrison.
Even though the tax rate passed without an increase, it wasn’t unanimous.
Commissioner Charlie Caswell voted “no,” saying a couple more pennies could help when it comes to public safety.
“I said it in committee, my wife has to go to Bartlett to walk because she doesn’t feel safe walking in Raleigh. We’ve got to do something different. I’m hoping my colleagues will still be open to a motion, I know myself, I spoke with Henri Brooks about a more budget, that if we had to go up some pennies that we have to do what we have to do for the people of this community,” Caswell said.
County commissioners also approved a resolution that overrides a veto by Mayor Harris.
The veto relates to a grant awarded to the MVP3 Foundation by Commissioner Edmund Ford Jr. However, the mayor says Ford Jr. shouldn’t be able to make decisions regarding grants due to the pending federal case against him.
Ford Jr. is accused of bribery and taking kickbacks, along with six counts of tax evasion. Ultimately, the decision came down to commissioners who unanimously approved the override on Monday.
The MVP3 Foundation released the following statement,
“I extend my heartfelt appreciation to our Commissioners, and I hold Mayor Harris in the highest regard. This matter was unrelated to our organization, and I wish everyone boundless success. Let us unite in our pursuit of healing for our community and especially for these remarkable students. Let’s move forward with hope and transform a broken heart into a masterpiece of inspiration,” said Marie Pizano, Chairwoman of the Board, MVP3 Foundation
The budget will go into effect on July 1.