Bartlett adopts 2025–26 budget, sets 66-cent tax rate after debate and amendment

The Bartlett Board of Mayor and Aldermen approved the city’s 2025–26 operating and capital budget and set a tax rate of $0.66 per $100 of assessed value at its June meeting after public comment, an amendment to add an economic development manager, and board debate over use of fund balance and pension costs.

City officials and residents said the votes matter because the budget funds pay increases and other investments city leaders say are needed to recruit and retain police and fire personnel and to maintain infrastructure. Opponents said the package raises costs for taxpayers and expands pension obligations.

Finance Director Steve Phoebus told the board the administration recommended “a tax rate of dollar 66 per $100 of assessed value for 2025 taxes.” The board adopted Ordinance 25-02 (the fiscal-year budget) as amended; the motion to adopt the ordinance was made by Alderman Reeves and seconded by Alderman Griffin. The amended budget passed by unanimous vote, 5–0. The separate ordinance to levy ad valorem taxes…