Capital Expense Fund; FY2025 appropriation to Town of Benoit for water and sewer improvement project.
Impact
The approval of SB3138 would have a significant positive impact on the town's infrastructure, providing necessary funds that could lead to improved water quality and waste management systems. For the residents of Benoit, this bill could mean access to better sanitation services, which is critical in maintaining public health standards. Moreover, improvements to these systems often enhance property values and can attract new residents and businesses, potentially boosting the local economy.
Summary
Senate Bill 3138 proposes an appropriation of $298,125 to the Town of Benoit, Mississippi, specifically targeted to enhance the town's water and sewer system during the fiscal year 2025. This funding is designated from the Capital Expense Fund and aims to provide necessary financial resources for local infrastructure improvements. The bill is directly focused on addressing crucial utility upgrades which are often essential for community health and economic stability.
Contention
While the bill appears to be straightforward in its aims, it may face scrutiny regarding funding allocation and priorities within state appropriations. Some may argue that more funds should be directed toward other pressing community needs such as education or public safety. This appropriation could be seen as a precedent for how state funds are distributed to local towns, with debates possibly emerging over the equity of budget allocations across different regions of the state.
To provide appropriations from the General Fund for the expenses of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Departments of the Commonwealth, the public debt and the public schools for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide appropriations from special funds and accounts to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; to provide for the appropriation of Federal funds to the Executive and Judicial Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2023, to June 30, 2024, and for the payment of bills remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2023; and to provide for the additional appropriation of Federal and State funds to the Executive and Legislative Departments for the fiscal year July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, and for the payment of bills incurred and remaining unpaid at the close of the fiscal year ending June 30, 2022.