During a budget hearing at the Board of Mayor and Aldermen (BOMA) meeting on Thursday, Vicksburg Mayor George Flaggs Jr. announced salary increases for city employees, as well as an increase in city rental fees and a recommended change in garbage collection.

Flaggs addressed several financial concerns Thursday after questions about employee raises, garbage collection fees and other city fees were raised at recent BOMA and town hall meetings.

Flaggs said part of the city’s budget for the new fiscal year, which begins Oct. 1, includes salary adjustment provisions for city employees who make $50,000 or less. They will receive a raise of up to 3 percent. City employees who make more than $50,000 a year will receive a similar raise starting Jan. 1, Flaggs said.

“We recognize the hard work and dedication of all of our city employees,” Flaggs said. “These proposed salary increases reflect our commitment to valuing their contributions while carefully managing our resources.”

Although no exact amounts were given, Flaggs also announced plans to increase fees at the City Auditorium and City Pavilion.

“Due to rising operating costs and budget constraints, we find ourselves in a situation where we must make difficult decisions,” he said. “As part of this necessary adjustment, we will implement a moderate increase in the rental fees for the City Auditorium and City Pavilion. In addition, residents are encouraged to cover half the cost of garbage collection.”

During a recent public meeting, Flaggs stated more than once that garbage collection fees have increased due to contracts with Waste Management, the only company that bid for Vicksburg’s services.

Flaggs said more details would be discussed as the budgeting process progresses.

“We had a very constructive first hearing and I am confident that with continued hard work we will achieve our financial goals,” he said. “Our primary focus remains on ensuring the well-being of our dedicated employees while maintaining the financial health of the city.”