Prosperity Town Council Increases Budget for 2024-25 Fiscal Year, Maintains Tax Base and Raises Public Service Sectors’ Charges

Prosperity Town Council Boosts Budget for 2024-25 Fiscal Year

Prosperity, a quaint town in South Carolina, has passed its first reading of the proposed budget for 2024-25 during the Town Council’s meeting last week. The total operating budget is currently projected at $3,413,995 for the year. Town councilman Chad Hawkins, Robert Martin, Allen Gallman, and Mike Hawkins were present at the meeting along with other key town officials, appreciating Town Clerk/Treasurer Michelle Bundrick for her 20 years of service to the town.

Key Highlights of the Proposed Budget

One notable feature of this budget is that there will be no changes to the town’s tax base. However, increases are planned in a few other areas. The operating budget is due to see an increase of about 5.8%, while it is projected that the spending on electricity, water, and sewer will rise by around 5%. Furthermore, all salaries will see a 3% raise, ensuring that all town employees benefit from this increase.

The budget also outlined sector-specific charges. For instance, a fee will now be charged for picking up building materials on the roadside from the county. However, charges will not be extended to limbs or junk disposed of by residents, only to building materials. The expected fees for a dump truck drop off will be pegged at $50 according to the proposed budget.

Discussion Points in the Council Meeting

Alongside the budget announcement, several other points were discussed at the meeting. Prosperity Fire Chief Robert Dennis addressed the council about the funding requirements for the fire department, maintenance of fire trucks, and the use of the town’s siren. Dennis expressed his concerns about the siren being used for trivial issues, such as a tree obstructing the road, which he felt should be addressed more appropriately.

This led him to recommend formulating a letter of understanding with Hawkins and Town Attorney Lisa Senn. This letter would outline that the fire department is fully resourced to dispatch fire and rescue without needing to utilize the town siren. Dennis pointed out that the siren sounds for three minutes and in emergency situations, it can be difficult to differentiate between the siren and an actual emergency vehicle, hence the need for change.

Local Law Enforcement Report

Prosperity Police Chief Wesley Palmore also reported on the activities of the local law enforcement for the past month. According to him, the police had undertaken 61 incident reports, issued 41 warning tickets and handed out 60 traffic tickets. He further stated that a back-to-school type event for the community has been planned for July 19, though no specific time was given during the meeting.

Engaging Community

As part of the local calendar, the Prosperity Business Association will be hosting a Movie Under the Stars night on July 12, aimed at fostering community spirit and unity. The choice of movie to be shown is currently under deliberation and is expected to be announced soon.