Sevier County Commission approves FY2023-24 budget, tax rate and multiple administrative resolutions

Sevier County commissioners on Monday approved the county's fiscal year 2023-24 budget and a slate of administrative resolutions during a special session called by County Mayor Larry Waters.

The commission adopted the certified tax rate for the coming year with no increase from the prior year and passed resolutions appropriating funds for county offices, departments, schools and nonprofits to begin July 1, 2023. Commissioners also approved the official budget documents and amendments to the FY2022-23 budget to better reflect revenues and expenditures.

The meeting included a series of routine administrative actions: confirmations of appointments to the Sevier County Regional Planning Commission and the Public Library System Board of Trustees; updates to the employee handbook and county administrative policies; and authorization to dispose of surplus vehicles and equipment via GovDeals. Senior Director Brooke Huffaker said unsold surplus items would be used for parts or scrap.

Commissioners voted to update several fee schedules, including inspection fees related to fire-code enforcement and GIS and water-service administrative fees; the water-connection fee language will be changed from a deposit fee to an application fee, with no immediate fee increases. Chief Puckett told commissioners the fire codes are on a seven-year update cycle and that the current action completes the 90-day review period required for code adoption.

Mayor Waters noted that nonprofits receiving county appropriations provide an annual audit or certified financial statement to the County Mayor’s office for review. Most motions passed by roll call with 21 yes votes and 4 commissioners absent on routine items.

The commission adjourned after completing the agenda; several measures had been subject to public comment earlier in the meeting, and a few items drew extended discussion before passage.