Wheel Tax Okayed For High School Project

 
By Shannon McFarlin WENK/WTPR News Director
Paris, Tenn.—Finalizing resolutions that have been discussed over several recent meetings, the Henry County Commission Monday night unanimously approved $9.1 M general obligation bonds to pay for the planned Henry County High School renovation project and adopted a local wheel tax to pay for it.
The commission also unanimously approved the execution by Henry County Medical Center of a $9.2M loan to pay for planned capital expenses. As explained by Hospital CEO Tom Gee at last week’s work session with the commission, HCMC is seeking permission from the county commission to borrow $9.2 M from the Tennessee Municipal Bond Fund that will be used for capital expenses.
None of the money being borrowed or used to pay off the loan will come from the county. But because the county oversees the hospital, the county commission must approve any borrowing.
Both the hospital plan and the high school plan have been discussed at length at public meetings.
Before the vote on the high school resolution, County Mayor Brent Greer noted it is for the same plan that was presented by County School officials at a previous commission meeting.
No one from the public spoke up on the issues at the meetings at which the plans were discussed.
The wheel tax approved by the commission is in the amount of $25 “for each such motor-driven vehicle, the owner of which resides within…the county”.
Greer noted that in discussion with State Rep. Tim Wirgau, R-Paris, Wirgau “felt comfortable taking this to the legislature” since it involves private act agreement by the state.
Greer thanked the commission for their actions on the issues “and the method you’ve taken on this. You’ve taken a lot of time and careful consideration.” Greer also noted that he is fully supportive of the resolutions.
He also noted that the law requires 2/3 majority to pass these resolutions and the votes on both were unanimous.
County Schools Superintendent Dr. Brian Norton said after the meeting school officials will begin immediately on preparations for the high school project and thanked all the commissioners for their votes.
In other business:
The commission approved the nominations from the nominating committee of Commission Chair Brent Greer and Vice Chair Wes Bradley.
Photo: Dr. Norton thanks Commissioner Don Jones, County Mayor Brent Greer and County Attorney Rob Whitfield. (McFarlin photo).