City Council allocates state funding for police and fire department assistance

The Gallatin City Council has taken significant steps to secure funding for essential services and maintain tax stability during their recent meeting on April 9, 2025. The council approved the appropriation of state funding for police and fire department supplements, ensuring that these critical services continue to receive necessary financial support. This annual funding is now officially on the books, thanks to a motion by Councilman Givans and a second by Councilman Carter, which passed unanimously.

In addition to the funding for public safety, the council discussed the upcoming tax rate for the 2025 tax year. The proposed ordinance maintains the current tax rate at 0.5295 cents for every hundred dollars of property tax. Vice Mayor Hayes moved the motion, which was seconded by Councilman Alexander. However, Councilman Johnson expressed his intention to abstain from voting, citing the need to review the budget before making a decision on the tax rate.

As the city prepares its budgets for the upcoming fiscal year, the council emphasized the importance of transparency and thorough review in the budgeting process. The tax rate ordinance requires three readings, unlike the budget, which only requires two, indicating a more extensive review process ahead.

These decisions reflect the council's commitment to ensuring the safety and financial stability of Gallatin, as they work to balance funding for essential services with the need for responsible tax policies. The community can expect further discussions and updates as the budget process unfolds in the coming months.