From Russ McKelvey, Jackson City Councilman, District 8

Like many of you, I was surprised and disappointed to learn last week that step raises were being eliminated. This decision was not communicated to Council prior to the announcement, and it is my understanding that it did not come as a recommendation from the Budget Committee.

Those who know me know that I prefer to work quietly behind the scenes. However, this is a matter I cannot let pass without speaking up. Our employees were promised this compensation, and they deserve to receive it.

After reviewing the budget meeting and hearing from so many of you directly, it is clear this decision has caused real hardship. The cost of living continues to rise, and our workforce depends on the wages they were told to expect. I hear you, and I do not believe it is right to walk back that commitment.

I am also confident that there is room within the budget to reduce spending in other areas and accommodate the cost of these raises. A leaner, more efficient budget is achievable — and taking care of our people must be a priority as we pursue it.

While I value the work and input of everyone involved in the budget process, it is ultimately Council’s responsibility to set the budget and allocate funding. My challenge to my fellow Councilmembers is this: let us work together to fund what was promised. We must also take steps to rebuild our General Fund and address outstanding capital needs. It will not be easy, but I believe the work can and should be done to build a stronger financial future for our community.

Although a favorable surplus is projected in the FY26 budget, we need additional breathing room to provide both fiscal stability and proper care for our employees.

I give you my commitment that I will find room for the step raises and fight to see that they are funded. Thank you for showing up each day and serving this community with dedication. I intend to honor that same dedication on my end.