Liberty City Council met in regular session Monday.

The council began the task of amending their budget for 2021-2022. Without the benefit of an occupational tax, which failed to pass at the last meeting, the council must now find a way to present a balanced budget by July 1st.

Councilman Ben Barlow said he has been working with city clerk Bridgett Blake to make cuts and move funds in an effort to try and prevent cutting funds from law-enforcement and fire department. Mr. Barlow says they were able to make some progress, but still at a deficit of Just over $47,600.

Councilman Richard Montgomery made a motion to create an ordinance to cut council salaries by $100 per month...
 

That motion was seconded by Ben Barlow and was approved by a vote of 3 to 2 for a first reading.

City Fire Chief, Roger Martin, volunteered a pay cut of $100 per month. The Council accepted that offer, to take affect immediately.

Councilman Brian Beeler proposed raising pay for City Police to try and keep officers from leaving. He proposed re-instating City Stickers at a rate of $30-$35 per vehicle for city residents and employees who work inside the city limits. There would be no exceptions. He estimated this could raise approximately $60,000 per year. There were some questions on how that would be enforced.

The council will take up these issues, and hear a 2nd reading of the Ordinance to cut Council salaries at another special meeting scheduled for Wednesday, June 22 at 5 o’clock at City Hall.