COPPERHILL, Tenn. — Budget woes led to the recent layoffs of two of the three city police officers in Copperhill, but that may not take care of the city’s funding problems, Mayor Cecil Arp said.
The police department layoffs occurred shortly before the Nov. 4 election in which Mr. Arp defeated former Mayor Herb Hood.
Mr. Hood had ordered the layoffs of Police Chief Warren Heminger and Officer Jerry Gilliam, stating that there were not enough funds to continue paying salaries.
Still on duty is Officer Terri Sticker and several reserve officers.
According to City Recorder Sandy Collins, not enough money comes in to the city from taxes and fees to cover the costs of running the city.
The new mayor said he does not know the whole budget picture at this point.
“I can’t tell you a thing about it. I’m still going through records to try and see where the city is at,” Mr. Arp said. “I may know more in a week or so.”
He said even with one officer, the sheriff’s office always has been on hand to help in emergencies.
In the past, former Mayor Robert Thomas fired the entire police department and there never was any safety risk or lack of service, Mr. Arp said.
The layoffs occurred after City Council members increased their salary from $50 to $100 a month. The city also purchased three patrol cars and a sport utility vehicle during the past budget year.