Subduing a crowd through peaceful means is a a useful skill to cultivate. The Jackson City Council showed its ability to do so at its December 15 meeting by lavishly feeding attendants following a swearing in ceremony that preceded adoption of the 2010 city budget.
Mayor Charlie Brown and the Council were met not with complaints, but understanding and even praise.
Jackson’s 2010 budget totals $7,835,650.
“We sliced it so many different ways it continues to amaze me we were able to balance it,” said Mayor Brown. “Everything is down: Sales tax, tap fees, hotel/motel tax, electric hookups...”
Brown said there were no electric hookups in the city for 2009.
“We’re getting close to the end of the year,” said Brown. “I think we’re going to end it at zero.”
Brown credited the department heads for their extensive cuts and told the crowd of citizens this was the first time in the city’s history raises were not given.
“The department heads cut all they could cut; I cut more,” said Brown.
Council Member Lewis Sims made a motion to adopt the budget; Council Member Wayne Philips seconded the motion and it passed unanimously.
Atlanta South 75 T/A Travel Center owner Bob Ryan congratulated the Council.
“It’s a very tough time and it’s great to see what you all have been able to do,” said Ryan.