Murray, Ky.—The city of Murray will be implementing a one percent payroll tax on everyone who works in the city, effective January 1.
Murray City Council approved the second and final reading on a 6-4 vote, with two council members absent. Voting yes on the measure were Jane Shoemaker, Wesley Bolin, Jason Pittman, Robert Billington, Jr., and Dan Miller. Voting no were Danny Hudspeth, John Mark Roberts, Linda Cherry and Jeremy Bell.
At the first reading, members were tied and Mayor Jack Rose broke the tie in favor of the payroll tax.
Before he voted no, Councilman John Mark Roberts said he has felt bullied by other council members because of his opposition to the tax. “I hope Murray can heal,” he said. “I hurt for the community.”