NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — The largest pay increase in Metro history is now in effect for first responders, city workers and more as Metro council approved a $3 billion budget plan just before midnight on Tuesday.
Mayor Cooper submitted his plans and some of the highlights include substantial increases to Metro schools, wanting to give them a $96.4 million dollar increase. He also wanted an increase to public safety employees like fire, EMS, police, and more.
Additionally, he wanted a 4% cost of living raises for all Metro employees.
But in order to make the changes, they want to reduce the appropriation to the general fund reserve fund, known as the Four Percent Fund. This fund is reserved for equipment and building repairs. Groups like the Nashville Public Library Foundation are not in favor, saying it would be devastating to them. Library workers also said the funds allow the library to purchase books and materials, and complete repairs necessary to keep branches open.
Metro council members voted unanimously to pass it 38 to 0.
In that plan is $100 million in new spending for Metro Nashville Public schools, fully funding the Bares Fund to create more affordable housing, new resources to fight homelessness and new spending across Metro's first responder and emergency departments.
Metro Council also approved an additional $125.7 million in one-time spending and additional reserves as a result of surplus funds. The Metro Council ordinance establishing the new policy directs that any surplus may be used for non-recurring expenditures, debt reduction or the establishment of additional reserves. One of the most talked about changes is nearly $61 million in new spending to increase wages for Metro employees, particularly for police, firefighters and EMS, making it the largest pay plan increase in Metro history.
The plan also includes a pay increase for principals and associate principals in addition to raises for teachers and support staff. $12 million will go to Metro Transit for better bus enhancements and other services. The changes go into effect for fiscal year 24 on July 1st.
