The Shelby County Board of Commissioners convened on May 28, 2025, to address several key agenda items, including funding allocations for local projects and amendments to the fiscal budget.
The meeting began with a discussion on a sole source contract with OPEX to relocate aging equipment to the county's emergency disaster recovery site. The contract was approved unanimously, with five commissioners voting in favor.
Next, the board considered a resolution to allocate $15,000 to the City of Memphis Parks and Neighborhoods Department for grass cutting and debris removal at several cemeteries. Commissioner Brooks proposed an amendment to include Zion Hill Cemetery in the funding list, which was accepted without objection. Commissioner Ford raised concerns about whether the allocated funds would be sufficient for the six locations, given rising costs. He committed to investigating potential matching funds from the city council and ensuring the budget would cover necessary expenses. The amended resolution passed with favorable votes from multiple commissioners.
The final significant item discussed was an add-on resolution to amend the FY 2026 proposed budget to include up to $3 million for the county's property tax relief matching program and the Greater Memphis Financial Empowerment Center. Commissioner Ford expressed frustration that this item was not already included in the proposed budget, emphasizing the importance of adhering to previously codified items. He questioned the accuracy of the proposed funding amount and sought clarification on whether it would fully cover the intended programs. The discussion highlighted the need for transparency and adherence to established budgetary practices.
Overall, the meeting underscored the board's commitment to addressing community needs while navigating budgetary constraints. Follow-up actions include further investigation into funding sources and potential adjustments to ensure adequate support for local initiatives.