Reps. Kevin Brooks and Eric Watson, both of Cleveland, came together this week to unveil a fiscal summary of Bradley County’s appropriations from the state budget.
The two Republicans said Bradley County will receive $155.3 million in state-appropriated expenditures for the 2012-2013 fiscal year.
Rep. Brooks stated, “Bradley County is at the forefront of economic growth in Tennessee and it is encouraging to see these funds allocated in a way that matches our county’s priorities.”
Among the highlights of the fiscal report, prepared by the Office of Legislative Budget Analysis:
· $66.8 million for K-12 Education.
· $51.2 million for Health and Social Services.
· $7.1 million for Law Enforcement, Safety, and Corrections.
· $3.1 million for Recreation, Tourism, and Preservation.
· $11.5 million for Economic Development and Higher Education.
· $2.8 million for Transportation projects.
“Obviously, over the last two years, we have made education reform and student achievement a priority for the State of Tennessee,” said Rep. Watson. “With it receiving a significant portion of the appropriations for Bradley County, we are ensuring our children and educators receive the support they need to strive for better results in the classroom. I am very pleased with this budget analysis and the state of Bradley County’s fiscal report.”
He said, "Over the last two years, Republicans in the General Assembly have found areas of waste and cut them from the overall state budget, letting taxpayers realize savings of a billion dollars last year and around $600 million this year."
“We must continue to find areas where taxpayer dollars can be saved,” noted Rep. Brooks. “I have no doubt you are going to continue seeing leaders from Williamson County ensure that is the case.”