MEMPHIS, Tenn. — Shelby County leadership was honored during Monday's meeting of County Commissioners.
Changing property tax assessments put on hold, again and the county's governing body unanimously approves the formation of a Black Caucus.
Full support was expressed for the faction of the commission.
The proposal was sponsored by the 7 Black members along with Commissioner Michael Whaley.
The Black Caucus is meant to address concerns of Black communities across Shelby County.
Commissioner Edmund Ford Jr. said he believes this can be a model for other communities across the country.
"My first challenge to this Black Caucus is to support initiatives that exist now that there are digital and scalable versions of something that we can create as the Black Wall Street. I'd also like to see us teach and reteach our communities by implementing fundamental principals of economic growth, investment, wealth building. People talk about reparations. I believe we have pieces in place where we can create our own reparations," said Ford.
Appreciation for leadership and bringing home of a championship were in order in commission chambers.
University of Memphis Coach Penny Hardaway was recognized for guiding the Tigers basketball team to an NIT title victory adding a key to the county to his key ring.
The players were handed citations of their own.
Meanwhile, county employee, Jasmine Wright's service was acknowledged, Shelby County Schools Superintendent Dr. Joris Ray was recognized for his leadership during the pandemic and recently retired MPD Director Mike Rallings was shown appreciation for his service as the city's top cop.
Commissioners are trying to figure out if they can eliminate the shock and awe that comes from having property assessments every four years, but instead have them every 2 years like in some larger cities.
Other commissioners say leave well enough alone.
No vote Monday, but this one's not over yet and it will be picked up again in June.