Anderson County Council approved final reading on their 2023-24 budget Tuesday.
Council Vice Chair Brett Sanders said the budget includes funding for a deputy coroner, two new sheriff’s deputies and a clerk. The budget also includes funding for improvements at the Sheriff’s Office including a new roof, a backup generator and tazers.
It also authorizes the County to issue a $7 million general obligation bond to renovate the Historic Courthouse. The budget also includes $53 million for construction of the new Detention Center.
There is funding for improvements at Exit 27.
County employees will get a three percent across the board increase in pay under the new budget.
The budget includes an increase in sewer rates due to a contract the County has with Anderson City to pay a pro-rated share of upgrades to the city system. There will be a ten percent increase in 2024 and a six percent increase in 2025.
Council approved an increase in the County’s Solid Waste fee, which will go from $76 to $80 per household. The Commercial rate will increase from $85.81 to $90.81.
There is no tax millage increase, Sanders said.
Council also approved third reading on an ordinance addressing park fees, permits, hours of operation and use of County parks. Chairman Tommy Dunn said the Sheriff’s Office requested the changes.
Council approved first reading on an ordinance to transfer a .395 acre partial of property on Brown Road to William R. McClellion III. The property “Abandoned Frances Cannon Drive” will be released to McClellion, who owns property on both sides of the right-of-way, for a nominal fee.
Council also approved a change to a work order at Dolly Cooper Park in Powdersville. Administrator Rusty Burns said the bid for new playground equipment came in less than expected and will allow two sail shades to be installed.
Council also approved a contract with GENESYS Health Alliance to provide Inmate Healthcare services at the Detention Center. Burns said the new company will provide more services than the current provider and that the current provider was going up on their rate.
