6/8/26 - Bradley County Commission Work Session

The Bradley County Commission held a work session on June 8, 2026, primarily focused on budget discussions, including a proposed 15% across-the-board pay increase for county employees and adjustments to the property tax rate. The commission reviewed the finance committee's recommendations and discussed the upcoming budget vote scheduled for June 26. Public comments were extensive, with many residents expressing concerns about the tax increase's impact on fixed-income households and the need to improve compensation to retain first responders and other county employees. Several speakers highlighted the challenges faced by law enforcement and fire personnel due to low pay and urged the commission to approve the raises to address retention issues. The commission also considered a resolution authorizing the county mayor to enter into an annexation interlocal agreement with the City of Cleveland for a property annexation, though technical questions were deferred to a later session. No votes were taken during this work session, but the budget and tax rate decisions are set for the upcoming special called meeting.