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Bill

HB 1425

Red Boiling Springs - Subject to local approval, increases the annual salary of the mayor from $5,200 to $18,200; increases the annual salary of council members from $500 to $1,800. - Amends Chapter 120 of the Private Acts of 1953; as amended and rewritten.

114th Regular Session (2025-2026) Introduced by Kelly Keisling

Tennessee authorizes Red Boiling Springs to raise mayor salary to $18,200 and council member pay to $1,800, pending local voter approval, effective immediately.

Pr. Ch. 18
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Bill Summary · HB 1425

Legislative bill overview

HB 1425 increases the annual salary of Red Boiling Springs' mayor from $5,200 to $18,200 and council members from $500 to $1,800, subject to local voter approval. The bill amends the city's 1953 charter and has already been signed into law by the Governor as of May 2025.

Why is this important

Municipal officials in smaller Tennessee towns have historically received minimal compensation, which can deter qualified candidates and create financial hardship for public servants. This legislation addresses compensation equity, though whether the increases are justified depends on local economic conditions and the city's budget capacity.

Potential points of contention

  • Cost to taxpayers: Even modest salary increases must be funded through local taxes or budget reallocation in a small city; the full annual cost impact is unclear
  • "Local approval" requirement: The bill requires voter authorization, but it's unclear what mechanisms exist if the local measure fails or what timeline applies
  • Comparability questions: Without context on peer city salaries or cost-of-living changes since 1953, it's unclear whether these increases are proportionate or excessive

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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