Sales tax for schools and many thanks: September 2012

Dear friends and neighbors,  

The start of the school year serves as a reminder to talk about a few things we all know. Please be careful while driving in Homewood as our children go to and from school. They are excited and thinking about so many things other than safety, and it is our responsibility to help watch for them. Our Traffic Department has worked hard getting crosswalks painted and refreshed, so please make sure we are especially careful in these areas. Parents, always volunteer to help in the mornings and afternoons, and I want to thank all of you for investing your time in our future.

I also want to take a moment and thank all of our teachers, administrators, and support staff for our school system.  I know you have worked hard through the summer months preparing lessons and getting ready for the new year to begin. Our city and schools have always worked very well together, and I look forward to another year of prosperity for both. 

Several years ago the residents of Homewood passed a tax devoting one cent of our sales tax to go directly to the schools, and we have never looked back or regretted that decision.  That one cent equates to roughly $7 million per year.  The City of Homewood continues to be in a unique position to support our schools and support our children. I am so proud of the fact that our city and our council still understand the value and benefits that one cent provides. Each time we cut a check to the school system, we see it as making another investment in our future. 

I also want to thank our library and library board for the many activities they provided in the summer months to our children. Our library continues to be ranked number one in Jefferson County and to be ranked number one in the State of Alabama based on circulation and size in our population grouping.  Debbie Fout and her board put a tremendous amount of time and energy to continue this tradition, and it is a testament to those who serve and give of themselves without pay as our Library Board members.

We are so fortunate in Homewood to have the best facilities and the best neighbors serving on various boards and the City Council to continue the strong relationships needed to maintain our standard of expectations and quality of life. As mayor, it is a pleasure serving with them. 

With kindest regards I remain  

Sincerely,  

Scott McBrayer

Mayor

City of Homewood