Franklin County commission approves $80.1 million 2017–18 appropriation after split vote

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners on July 31 approved the county's 2017–18 Appropriation Resolution (02-073117), adopting a budget that totals $80,118,497 across all funds.

Mayor Richard Stewart urged commissioners to keep the tax rate unchanged to help cover upcoming projects and financial commitments as the appropriation was discussed. After providing an opportunity for public comment—the commission said none came forward—Commissioner Gene Snead moved to adopt the resolution; David Eldridge seconded. The measure passed by voice vote: 10 ayes, 2 nays (Iris Rudder and Dave Van Buskirk) and one pass (Angie Fuller).

The adopted appropriation lists key fund totals and departmental allocations. The General Fund appropriation is $17,526,410 and the General Purpose School Fund appropriation is $45,554,385. The county packet filed with the minutes shows the full budget and supplemental schedules, including debt service, special revenue funds, and capital project details.

The resolution also includes standard budget controls and administrative provisions: it authorizes borrowing on revenue anticipation notes if approved by the state Comptroller (Title 9, Chapter 21, T.C.A.), requires formal amendment procedures (Section 5-9-407, T.C.A.) and restates the county's reserve and debt management policies. It directs that unencumbered balances lapse at fiscal year-end and confirms that specific grants and school federal projects will be administered under the approvals of the Board of Education and the Tennessee Department of Education.

The commission recorded the resolution on the minutes and certified it; the documents in the packet show departmental line items and the schedules used to produce the $80.1 million total. The board adjourned at 7:28 p.m.