CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. -- The Montgomery County Budget Committee on Wednesday night looked to resolve some of its budget questions by endorsing the increase of both property and wheel taxes.

Video: Montgomery Co. Leaders May Raise Wheel, Property Taxes

City leaders said they are trying to make up an $8 million budget shortage next year.

The committee unanimously endorsed raising the county property tax by 16 cents and the wheel tax by $20.

In the past, when the county has raised the wheel tax, it allowed the public to decide the mater via a referendum vote. However, the county commission may have the final say.

"If we don't have a say, then what kind of government do we have," said taxpayer Joann Wood.

The new property tax would become $3.30 per $100 of assessed value, while the total wheel tax would become $50, reported Clarksville's Leaf Chronicle newspaper.

The full county commission will have to approve the measures.

Commissioners have expressed concern over these increases, questioning whether the public can afford the increases in the tough economy.

Channel 4 contacted several county leaders regarding the proposed tax increases but each declined a request to be interviewed.

According to the Leaf Chronicle, officials estimated the wheel tax increase would bring in more than $2 million extra to the county.

Other Counties Battle Budget Problems

The budget blues haven't cut Cheatham County students any slack, either.

The school system has already trimmed $1 million from its budget, cut ten teachers and still must cut another $200,000 from the budget.

Bedford County leaders said they won't have to raise taxes, but there will be no pay raises for county employees next year. The county may also have to cut back on ambulance services.

Many middle Tennesseans are worried about the future with the economy showing little signs of improving.

"If (prices) keep going up, we're going to be a nation of poor people who can't afford anything," said Wood.

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