The Greer City Council has moved forward with a $91.5 million budget for the upcoming fiscal year, following a 5-2 vote at their May 26 meeting. This budget, which includes $61.1 million for the general fund, ensures that the city’s operations continue without an increase in property tax millage, which remains at 111.0 mills.

The budget reflects a 4.4% increase in expenses compared to the previous year, while the mill rate has seen a 9.9% increase, generating approximately $334,605 in property tax revenue per mill. Notably, the budget allocates $1.55 million for 22 new staff positions across 10 departments and provides for a 2.8% cost-of-living adjustment for city employees.

Debates and Amendments

During the meeting, several council members expressed interest in reducing the millage rate. Council member Wryley Bettis proposed an amendment to decrease the millage by 2 mills, which would have resulted in a reduction of about $668,000. This amendment was defeated, as was a subsequent proposal by Council member Charles Lander to lower the millage by one mill.

Additionally, Council member Jay Arrowood suggested an amendment to freeze technology funding until the council could discuss the use and protection of data collected by the city, particularly concerning cameras and facial recognition software. This amendment also did not pass.

Ultimately, the budget was approved as presented, with council members Bettis and Lander voting against it. Council members Arrowood, Karuiam Booker, Mark Hopper, and Paul Lamb, along with Mayor Rick Danner, voted in favor.

The council is scheduled to consider the second and final reading of the budget ordinance on June 9. The budget must be finalized before the current fiscal year ends on June 30.

Original reporting: Greenville Journal — read the source article.