Residents debate proposed Bradley County first responder pay

CLEVELAND, Tenn. (WDEF)- Bradley County residents are sounding off over a potential tax increase to support an increase in first responder pay.

They made their cases to the Bradley County Commission Monday.

This is following a recommendation by the commission’s finance committee to fund a 15 percent increase in pay for county employees through a property tax increase of less than a percent a year.

Some say the increase is worth it given Bradley County firefighters currently start at $41,000 a year.

However, others say they are against any property tax increase.

Bradley County Sheriff’s Deputy Courtney Burger said, “It’s hard to watch employees leave Bradley County to go to neighboring agencies with starting pay significantly higher than I make as an almost 10 year employee. I often ask myself, “Why should I stay here?” More money would benefit my children.”

However, resident Mary Wilton said, “These people that are demanding a raise again knew what they’d be paid. If they can’t make it than they are evidently living beyond their means… Are you going to support 600 plus employees or are you going to support thousands of Bradley County residents?”

The commission did not vote on this Monday and has called a special meeting next Friday at noon where they will likely vote on next year’s budget.