Pell City will opperate on its largest ever budget over the next year.

The city has spent the last month debating where funds could be cut and how services will be paid for.

One crucial item of note is that the city’s Utility Shortfall of $940,175 will be paid through the General Fund Reserve, leaving an overall shortfall of $737.

Other than the transfer of those funds, the city will still opperate under the budget laid out in last week’s Aegis [Online at www.NewsAegis.com].

Christmas Bonuses

Though the city’s leaders did not come out and call a $300 per full-time employee bonus to be paid in December a Christmas bonus, the item was passed and added to the budget. Part-time employees would be paid $150.

Councilman James McGowan, who introduced the measure Monday, said the move would help families during the recession.

McGowan said that there is enough money in the tobacco tax fund to pay for the one-time input of money.

Three yard sales per year

Pell city residents may now have up to three yard sales each calander year after councilwoman Dot Wood’s measure was passed Monday.

Before, residents were only allowed to have one yard sale every six months. Residents must still pay the $5 fee for each sale.

Building Inspector description

City leaders discussed requirements for the job description for the now-vacant inspector’s position.

Councilwoman Wood wanted the person to hold an Alabama builder’slicense, while Councilman Greg Gossett said they should be certified in specific areas such as plumbing and electrical work.

After some discussion, it was decided that adding a builder’s license would strengthen the position. Gossett was the lone ‘no’ vote on the matter.