Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

The Franklin City Council voted 6-0 on Monday, July 8, to honor the work of Franklin Planning Commission members by adopting a policy of providing a per-meeting stipend for each member attending commission meetings moving forward.

Only six votes were cast on the matter because Ward 6 Councilwoman Jessica G. Banks was absent.

“This is a resolution honoring Planning Commission members,” Franklin Mayor Robert “Bobby” Cutchins said when he introduced Resolution #2024-18, known as the “Resolution Authorizing a Stipend to Planning Commission Members.”

Ward 2 Councilman Ray Smith read the resolution aloud during the council’s July 8 meeting before he and his fellow council members voted on it.

The resolution is written as follows:

“Whereas, the City Council of the city of Franklin wishes to acknowledge the important role that members of the Planning Commission play in determining the future development of the city, and;

“Whereas, the dedicated members of the Planning Commission have tirelessly volunteered their time, expertise and passion to serve our community; and

“Whereas, their commitment to excellence, integrity and public service has significantly

contributed to the betterment of the city of Franklin; and

“Whereas, their professionalism and leadership have guided important decisions that impact our infrastructure, housing, transportation and overall quality of life; and

“Now, therefore, I, Robert ‘Bobby’ Cutchins, mayor, on behalf of the … Franklin City Council hereby adopt a policy of providing a $50 stipend for each meeting attended in the future in recognition of the Planning Commission member’s contributions to the city of Franklin, Virginia.”

Ward 3 Councilman Gregory McLemore motioned to adopt the resolution, and Ward 4 Councilman Dr. Linwood Johnson seconded the motion.

Following the 6-0 vote, Cutchins said, “So carried. Thank y’all. And we do appreciate what the Planning Commission does as well. They do a lot.”