Council Adopts Budget

The Monticello City Council voted unanimously to adopt a $9.238 million budget for the fiscal year 2016 during its regular meeting Tuesday night.

The motion was made by Councilman Larry Thurman and seconded by Councilman Cornell Williams. When the vote was called for both Councilwoman Katherine Alexander and Councilman David Wease voted for. Mayor pro tem, Bobby Jacobs was not at the meeting.

The $9 million budget has been discussed at great length and the city provided several dates for public comment and there was little to none heard, according to City Manager, Peggy Billerman.

The council also voted on lowering the rollback millage rate to 6.746 mills from 6.855 which it was in the last fiscal year.

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With the FY16 budget, it shows a $500,000 decrease overall from last year.

There were very few increases and a majority of the departments actually cut their budgets.

The council heard from Jeff Howe, with American Legion Post #110 during their meeting where he offered a formal invite to Mayor Bryan Standifer and council to the third annual Veterans Celebration and parade on Saturday, June 20.

He said the festivities begin at 9 a.m. on the Square where Mayor Standifer will speak at 9:30 a.m. to open the celebration. He then said that there will be a ceremony and a parade to follow and the afternoon will conclude with a flag retirement ceremony.

Mr. Howe noted that this event was in conjunction with the Market on the Square and that vendors would also be participating.

“I believe that this is wonderful,” said Mayor Standifer. “I remember when this thing was just starting with a bang and I am so proud of its continuance. I thank God for the veterans that we have here in Jasper County. I thank each of you for your service and look forward to celebrating with you all.”

Mayor Standifer commented that the year was half way over and that the City of Monticello “has a lot going on.” He said that there was a new business, Hardwick Company locating here bringing 20 jobs here.

The council went into executive session at the end of the regular meeting to discuss personnel.