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Fiscal Court advances occupational tax increase and FY25/26 budget on first reading
Summary
On first reading the court approved changes to the Planning & Zoning fee schedule, a proposed occupational tax increase from 1.00% to 1.25% (effective Jan. 1, 2026), and the FY25/26 budget; the county noted the coroner had outstanding material and the City of Franklin expects to cover half the cost for three new firefighters.
Simpson County Fiscal Court approved first readings of three ordinances affecting local fees, taxation and the county budget.
The court approved Ordinance No. 910.5, which restates the Planning & Zoning permit and inspection rate schedule and raises minimum fees for industrial and commercial permits while allowing for reinspection fees. The measure passed first reading without objection.
The court also approved first reading of Ordinance No. 220.262, which would raise the county occupational tax rate from 1.00% to 1.25%. Magistrate Marty Chandler told the court the change would not take effect until Jan. 1, 2026. The ordinance advanced on first reading and will require subsequent readings and formal adoption to take effect.
Finally, the court approved first reading of Ordinance No. 220.263, the FY25/26 budget. Judge/Executive Mason Barnes said Coroner Kevin Gilbert had delivered budget information that had not been discussed in person and indicated any necessary adjustments could be handled by a later budget amendment. Barnes also said Franklin City Manager Kenton Powell indicated the city anticipates covering 50% of the cost for three new firefighters; the funding arrangement remains subject to further discussion between the city and county.
All three first readings passed by recorded motion on the docket. Because these are first readings, they do not by themselves change rates or appropriations until the required subsequent steps are completed.
