Soddy-Daisy commission approves first reading of 2024'25 budget and tax rate in 3'2 vote

The Soddy-Daisy Board of Commissioners approved on first reading an ordinance adopting the city's fiscal 2024'25 budget and tax rate during a special called meeting on May 22, 2024, passing the motion 3'2. Mayor Everett moved to adopt the ordinance as proposed and "look at the assessment next year," and Commissioner Keith seconded the motion.

The vote came after a public hearing and more than nine hours of budget workshops this year, city leaders said. City Manager Burt Johnson told the board the city's total assessed value is $362,000,000 and outlined capital outlays the proposed budget would fund, including two fire engines already ordered, software updates for codes and public works, a free-standing restroom at North Park, parking-lot lights at South Park, pavilion repairs, replacement police vehicles and a planned rewrite of the zoning ordinance.

The ordinance drew opposition from some commissioners and residents who urged the City to wait for the county reassessment before approving any tax increase. "I ask the Commission to wait for the reassessment before imposing a tax increase," public commenter…