Knoxville mayor proposes large property tax increase

Bill Haslam, who was elected Knoxville’s first new mayor in 16 years last September, said a 35-cent increase on the tax rate will help keep the city moving forward despite rising employee costs and a $10 million budget shortfall.

The increase means the average city homeowner would pay an extra $5 per month, he said.

Haslam’s budget proposal now goes before the city council for approval.

His budget includes new initiatives such as a 48-hour guarantee to repair potholes and a call center to take citizens’ requests and concerns.

Haslam, a first-time candidate, replaced Victor Ashe, who was prevented from running again after an unprecedented four terms as mayor of Tennessee’s third-largest city.
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Information from:
The Knoxville News Sentinel: http://www.knoxnews.com