McKenzie City Council to Vote on Budget Thursday

McKENZIE — The McKenzie City Council is set to vote on a proposed $5.5 million budget and 32 percent property tax increase on Thursday, July 10, at 6 p.m. during the regular monthly meeting of mayor and council. During the June 24 special called meeting, the city held a public hearing on the budget, but was unable to vote due to councilmember absences, or failing to achieve a quorum.

The new fiscal year begins July 1, and City Attorney Beau Pemberton has indicated the city can continue operating under a continuing budget based on the 2024-25 budget if necessary, though he encouraged swift approval of the new budget.

Tax Increase Proposal
After nearly two decades without property tax increases, McKenzie is proposing to raise its tax rate from 62.18 cents to 82.18 cents per $100 of assessed value. The increase would generate an additional $242,968 in revenue, specifically designated for street paving and infrastructure improvements.

The proposed tax hike comes following a state-mandated property reappraisal that increased property values by 60 to 70 percent throughout Carroll County. Street Superintendent Johnny Mercer noted that paving costs approximately $220,000 per mile, making the additional revenue crucial for maintaining city infrastructure.

Public Concerns
At the June 24 public hearing, three property owners expressed concerns about the tax increase, particularly those who own rental properties. Glynn Mebane reported that one of his properties increased in value from $96,000 to $166,000, which would result in an additional $82 in annual taxes under the proposed rate.

Jerry and Wanda Merchant questioned whether the city could make any budget cuts, especially given the ongoing construction of a new soccer complex. Wanda Merchant suggested attracting more businesses to generate additional revenue.

Council Response
Council members Tom Alexander, Carol Armpriest, and Bobby Young defended the tax increase, emphasizing that the city hasn't raised taxes in approximately 20 years. They highlighted the need for competitive employee wages, with a minimum starting pay of $12 per hour, and stressed that additional funds are essential for maintaining city operations.

Young noted that the city has budgeted only $100,000 for paving in each of the last six years, which allows for repaving just one street annually. Without additional funding, he warned that the city's streets would deteriorate significantly.

Soccer Complex, Other Projects
The proposed budget includes an estimated $260,000 loan for constructing a multi-field soccer complex at Mulberry Park. Currently, approximately 260 children participate in youth soccer, but the city lacks dedicated soccer fields and relies on school property for practices and games.

The new complex would accommodate local play and allow the city to host tournaments, potentially attracting recreational tourism. Earth-moving equipment completed preliminary site work during the week of June 16.

Upcoming Meeting
The council meeting is Thursday, July 10, at 6 p.m. at City Hall (2470 Cedar Street). The agenda includes:

Approval of the FY 2025/2026 budget

Discussion of Food Truck Ordinance 572

Approval of a proclamation honoring Abigail Wallace's state track championship

Purchase of police department software and a vehicle for the drug investigator

Citizens wishing to address the council must contact city hall at 731-352-2332 at least 24 hours before the meeting to be added to the agenda.

Additional Developments
Mayor Ryan Griffin noted that the city now has a fully staffed and certified police force, which has contributed to reduced crime according to recent statistics. The city is also exploring the purchase of new equipment, including a potential electric dump truck available at a reduced price through a grant program.

Several new businesses have opened recently, with a children's boutique and Taco Bell expected to open soon, potentially providing additional revenue for the city.