Mayor Flaggs Announces Key Highlights of the 2025 Fiscal Year Budget

VICKSBURG, MS. – Mayor George Flaggs, Jr. is pleased to announce the key components of the City of Vicksburg’s Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 budget, which reflects the city’s commitment to financial stewardship, employee compensation, and service enhancements.

Employee Raises and Compensation

The 2025 FY budget prioritizes fair compensation for our dedicated employees. The approved raises include:

• Public Works Employees will see salary adjustments to ensure competitive wages.
• Firefighters and Police Officers received their raises in July 2024, ensuring we remain competitive in retaining and recruiting public safety personnel.
• Employees Making $50,000 and Below: A total of $403,959 has been allocated for raises, covering
  both salaries and fringe benefits for this group.

Additional Staffing and Wage Increases

• Information Technology Department: A part-time employee in the IT Department has been made
  full-time, effective October 2, 2024, to better support the city’s technological infrastructure.
• Crossing Guards: Their hourly wage has been increased to $15, recognizing their critical role in
  ensuring the safety of our students.
• Minimum Wage: The city has raised its minimum wage to $10 an hour.

Hiring Freeze and Budgetary Adjustments

At this time, the city is implementing a hiring freeze. This decision will help manage our expenses as we navigate the current fiscal environment.

ARPA Funds, Grants, and Sponsorships

Please note that the city’s American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds have been fully utilized. Also please be aware that the CHAMPIONS for Health Grant ended in June 2024. As a result, this will impact the distribution and approval of sponsorships, donations, and contributions. While we are not denying any requests outright, please understand that initial requests may not be fully granted. The city will make these decisions based on the 97% Rule, ensuring that our regular budget does not exceed 97% of the prior year’s funding.

Commitment to Fiscal Responsibility

“As we finalize the budget for FY 2025, I want to assure our residents that we remain focused on continuing financial stewardship and providing the best quality service at the least cost to the taxpayers,” said Mayor Flaggs.

For further information please contact Mayor George Flaggs, Jr. at 601-942-0492.