Budget

Last week’s budget conversation was focused on an issue of great importance to me: our children. For the first time ever, Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) has a proposed budget that exceeds the $1 billion mark. That’s right, $1 billion. I was excited when the mayor announced at the state of metro that his proposed budget fully funds our schools. As someone who ran on fully funding our school, regardless of the zipcode, this is…

For last week’s Budget Conversation, I was joined by the Assessor or Property, Vivian Wilhoite, and SEIU Local 205’s Political Director, Jason Freeman. Together, we spoke about the reappraisal process and the implications of the referendum. Below are the main takeaways from our discussion. Breaking Down the Reappraisal Process WHAT IS REAPPRASIAL? Reappraisal is a four-year cycle required by the State Board of Equalization (SBOE) that serves to reestablish equity of property values. It is…

Last Saturday, I kickstarted this year’s Budget Conversation series with help from Councilmember at Large Bob Mendes. Because it was our first conversation about the FY 22 budget, we stuck to explaining what is outlined in Mayor Cooper’s proposed budget, not what should be included. Below is a summary of our conversations. Highlights from the Mayor’s Budget GENERAL OVERVIEW OF THE BUDGET: Without a doubt, the past year has been extremely challenging to navigate for…

Yesterday, Metro Council voted to increase property taxes by $1.06. I have received emails from some constituents who are upset about the raise. I understand the frustration. Nashvillians have been through a lot this year: from the tornado, to COVID-19,  to the loss of jobs, businesses and income, these past few months have tested this community. Therefore, the question that a lot of you must be wondering, if this year has been marked by such…

Last night Mayor Cooper presented highlights of the FY21 budget to the Council. While many cities and counties are feeling the impact of the COVID-19  virus, many can tap into their fund balance  (i.e. rainy day funds) to see them through. Unfortunately, Metro has no fund balance.  Below are highlights from the Mayor’s presentation on our current situation and the proposed path forward. Highlights from the Mayor’s Budget Issues Metro Finance was in a bad…