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By (https://www.wtva.com/authors/marcus-hunter/) Marcus Hunter    Published: Sep. 9, 2026 at 5:54 PM EDT | Updated: 8 hours ago     Share     (https://google.com/preferences/source?q=https://www.wtva.com)  Add Us On Google Add as a preferred source on Google      COLUMBUS, Miss. (WTVA) – Columbus city leaders are working to finalize an upcoming budget. The City Council is still working to finalize its upcoming budget, but city leaders said residents shouldn’t expect a tax increase.  Mayor Stephen Jones said the city is trying to balance employee pay, equipment needs, and other expenses before a state deadline later this month.  The council spent part of Wednesday’s meeting discussing appropriations, staffing changes, and employee compensation.   The mayor said the city is hoping to include a three-percent raise for most employees and add several new positions, including a maintenance worker and a position to assist with auditing responsibilities.  Council members are expected to continue budget discussions before the Sept. 15 deadline.  “No, there will not be a tax increase,” said Mayor Jones. “We’re just working on the budget. But as long as I’m mayor, we’re going to make sure we don’t have a tax increase. Or at least that’ll be my goal. I don’t have a vote unless it’s a tie. But that is my vote.”  The mayor said public works equipment, employee raises, and fire department needs remain some of the biggest budget items still under discussion.   Copyright 2026 WTVA. All rights reserved.            Most Read   (https://www.wtva.com/2026/09/09/1-dead-after-lee-county-shooting/) (A Shannon Police Department patrol vehicle parked outside a gas station in Verona, Miss.)      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