Mason leaders and Tennessee comptroller reach deal over town’s finances to avert court battle

The town of Mason has reached a new agreement Tuesday with the Tennessee comptroller’s office, weeks after city officials filed a lawsuit against the state for assuming control of its finances.

The majority-Black-led town was originally issued a corrective action plan, or CAP, that its leaders said treated them unfairly for problems that began under white leaders in past administrations.

It required them to make a monthly minimum payment of $9,564 to its water and sewer fund, in addition to seeking approval for nearly every expenditure over $100. Officials were previously using funds from the utility department to cover its general expenses.

Attorney Van Turner, who’s representing Mason, told WPLN News that the amended CAP puts the town in a better position to succeed.

“Now, they just need approval for things that are over $1,000, as opposed to $100,” Turner explained. “The weekly reporting requirement was amended to be a monthly reporting requirement, which respects the leadership of the town a lot more.”

In addition, Mason’s monthly water and sewer repayment will be cut to $5,180.33 monthly for 48 months. The town moved to dismiss its lawsuit against the comptroller’s office as part of the new agreement.

“We reduced the corrective action plan length of time down from two years to four months,” Turner added. “That means that on August 31, 2022, the corrective action plan will cease to be in place.”

Moving forward, a spokesperson for the Tennessee comptroller’s office told WPLN News that Mason would utilize a certified public accounting or law firm to improve its financial situation.

“Mason’s agreement to a new corrective action plan is a significant step in restoring the town’s financial health,” said Comptroller Jason Mumpower. “By agreeing to change its practices and work with our Office, Mason will operate on a balanced budget, work toward correcting its audit findings, and eliminate improper borrowing. Most importantly, if Mason follows this plan, taxpayers can know their leaders are being good stewards of their money.”