Council Adopts $10M Budget With No Tax Increase; Disputed Hwy 221 Industrial Annexation Passes First Reading
Before a packed room, Woodruff City Council unanimously gave final approval to a balanced ~$10M FY2026-27 budget with no tax increase, and passed first reading of an industrial annexation on Hwy 221 near Elijah Simmons and Mary Hanna roads that drew neighbors in opposition.
The Woodruff Times reported on July 10, 2026 on a Woodruff City Council meeting held before a packed house.
Budget adopted: Council unanimously approved second (final) reading of the city's roughly $10 million budget for the new fiscal year, about $3 million more than last year, reflecting expected growth in tax revenue. As City Manager Lee Bailey laid out at first reading in May, it adds five city employees plus equipment such as tractors and other vehicles. The paper reports the budget is balanced with no tax increase.
Hwy 221 annexation, first reading: Council approved first reading of a request to annex land along Highway 221 near Elijah Simmons Road and Mary Hanna Road and zone it industrial, along with a 10-foot strip at 13093 Highway 221 so the larger tract touches city limits.
Residents opposed: Several nearby residents came to oppose the request. Because it was not a public hearing item, audience comments were not taken; Council member Toni Sloan asked Assistant City Manager Brandon McMahan to explain the process, and residents were told they would be heard before final approval.
What is actually planned: The paper reports that only the property owner has filed anything with the city and no project plans have been submitted. A document circulating in the community showing large warehouse buildings was identified as a speculative plan.
Next steps (as of July 10): The request was set to go to the Planning Commission on July 9 for a zoning recommendation, with second reading and a public hearing expected at the July council meeting. Residents can send written comments to city officials at any time before that vote.
Also approved: Second reading of the annexation of 2.46 acres at 1035 Cross Anchor Road, zoned C-2 limited commercial for future medical use.
Council meets the last Tuesday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at City Hall; meetings are open to the public.
Read the full report at The Woodruff Times (link below).