McKenzie Budget Delayed Due to Lack of Quorum

McKENZIE (June 24) — A scheduled vote on the City of McKenzie’s proposed $5.5 million budget was postponed because three of the six Council members were absent from the special-called meeting on June 24.

The absent members were Vice-Mayor Drew Beeler, Tim McBride, and Jessie Townes. As a result, Mayor Ryan Griffin has rescheduled the vote for July 7 at City Hall. The new fiscal year for 2026 begins on July 1 for all municipal, county, and state governments in Tennessee. Beau Pemberton, the city attorney, indicated that the city can continue operating under a continuing budget based on the 24-25 budget that ends June 30. He encouraged the Council to approve a budget as soon as possible in July.

Although a quorum was not present, a public hearing was held, during which three property owners expressed their concerns about the proposed tax increase. Jerry and Wanda Merchant, along with Glynn Mebane, voiced their worries, particularly because they own rental properties within the city limits.

With the recent reappraisal of real estate values by the State of Tennessee, landowners were notified that their property values had increased by 60 to 70 percent. During reappraisal years, the taxing authority receives a new certified tax rate from the State meant to generate the same amount of revenue, known as the revenue-neutral rate. For the City of McKenzie, this rate is 62.18 cents per $100 of assessed value. The Council has proposed to exceed that rate by 20 cents, making the new rate 82.18 cents per $100 of assessed value.

Mebane reported that the value of one of his properties increased from $96,000 to $166,000. Mayor Griffin calculated the new tax rate for Mebane’s property, estimating it would result in an additional $82 in taxes per year.

The Merchants inquired if the city could make any cuts to the budget, especially considering that the city is in the process of constructing a new soccer complex.

Councilmembers Tom Alexander, Carol Armpriest, and Bobby Young defended the proposed tax increase, noting that the city has not raised taxes in approximately 20 years. They emphasized that city employees require a minimum starting pay of $12 per hour, and additional funds are essential to maintain city operations, particularly for street repairs. Young pointed out that the city has budgeted $100,000 for paving in each of the last six years, which would only allow for the repaving of one street at that rate. He argued that without the additional $100,000, the city’s streets would be in terrible condition in the coming years.

Alexander commented that the city has a competent staff of employees and department supervisors, highlighting that pay raises are necessary to retain those employees. Mayor Griffin stated that the city now has a fully staffed and certified police force, which has contributed to a reduction in crime, according to recent statistics.

The proposed soccer complex is a much-needed addition, as the city has not increased its recreation budget in years. Currently, approximately 260 children participate in youth soccer, but the city lacks soccer fields and relies on school property for practices and games. The new soccer complex would not only accommodate local play but also allow the city to host tournaments and attract recreational tourism.

Wanda Merchant suggested that the city could attract more businesses to generate additional revenue. In response, Griffin mentioned that some new businesses have already opened plus a children’s boutique and a Taco Bell are opening soon.

Griffin also highlighted the need for upgraded equipment, including a dump truck, and mentioned that the city is exploring the possibility of purchasing an electric dump truck, which would be available at a reduced price thanks to a grant.