Community members went before the Hamilton County Commission on Wednesday to weigh in on a proposed school budget that could mean a tax increase for residents.
The budget, presented this week by Superintendent Bryan Johnson and his staff, includes a $34 million increase funding as part of the overall $443 million. It includes a 5% pay bump for teachers, more than 350 new positions such as counselors, social workers and truancy officers and increased funding for technology.
Since it was unveiled, it has received mixed reaction. Wednesday’s commission meeting was no different.
Dr. Allen Coffman, of Highland Pediatrics in Hixson and a parent of a Signal Mountain student, said he hopes the commission will vote for the budget increase.
“I want to encourage you to approve Dr. Bryan Johnson’s budget for this year,” Coffman said. “I believe, as a parent and as a professional pediatrician who takes care of children with academic challenges that this budget pragmatically and effectively addresses issues for children with academic needs.”