Algood Council Votes Against A One-Time Bonus For Employees

Algood City Council voted against a one-time bonus for 46 front-line city workers Tuesday night.

Three council members including Mayor Lisa Chapman-Fowler abstained. Council members Bill Bilbrey and Ruby Hawkins both have family members who work for the city. The resolution failed with just two yes votes.

Council Member Luke Hill proposed a resolution for a $500 one-time bonus. Council members talked about a $300 bonus at their Monday night work session.

“I’m nothing but pleased with the people who take care of us as citizens,” Hill said. “I think we, as a municipality, have the ability to, we’re doing well financially. I’m all for it.”

Chapman-Fowler said no employees lost wages during the COVID-19 shutdown.

“This is strictly something that would be voluntary on the part of the council,” Chapman-Fowler said.

In addition, the city had already budgeted bonuses for city employees according to Mayor Chapman-Fowler.