During the City of Crossville’s council meeting this past Tuesday, officials took a significant step forward by approving the first reading of the municipal tax rate. Following the session in a phone interview, City Finance Director Nathan Clouse provided essential clarity on the city’s fiscal direction, reassuring residents that the tax rate is currently set to remain identical to last year’s figures; 60.59 cents per $100.

While Clouse acknowledged that adjustments to the budget are common and expected before the second reading, the primary goal remains to keep the tax rate stable without an increase.

The city’s financial health appears robust, characterized by a structural budget that is currently operating at a surplus. Because of this stability, the council felt no immediate need to raise taxes during this initial phase of the budgeting process. On a more granular level, the general fund is showing a surplus in its daily operations; however, it currently reflects a minor overall deficit of just over $4,000. Clouse noted that this figure is preliminary and will likely fluctuate as the budget is refined in the coming weeks.

Other sectors of the city’s finances are showing even stronger performance, with both the water/sewer department and the Catoosa budgets reporting healthy surpluses. This diversified financial stability provides a cushion for the city as it moves toward final approval.

To ensure transparency throughout the process, Director Clouse strongly encourages Crossville residents to attend upcoming meetings, where they can engage with the details and learn more about how their local government manages its resources.