MEMPHIS, Tennessee —
As promised, Mayor Jim Strickland presented the proposed 2021 Memphis City budget.
Delayed due to loss in revenue due to the COVID-19 pandemic the budget includes no tax hikes or layoffs. COVID-19 dealt that card for the 2021 budget slashing this year's proposal by $14.7 million.
Strickland says these 4 things will help keep the city afloat: no new hires except for police and fire, no layoffs, no tax increases, plus a reduction in spending on supplies and materials.
So, where does the $113 million in CARES act money come in for COVID relief?
Strickland says that money can not replace lost revenue for next year, but it can be used for payroll and public works due to coronavirus.
$19.3 million from the city's reserve fund will have to fill in the budget gap.
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