LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Shively property owners will soon get $100 checks from the city. The city approved the plan tonight, but council members were split and Mayor Sherry Conner -- who proposed it -- had to cast the tie-breaking vote.

Conner calls it a "stimulus" and says sharing part of the city's million-dollar-a-year surplus is the right thing to do. It could cost the city about $500,000.

One council member says the money should pay for city improvements instead.

"$500,000 is a lot of money," councilman Ronnie Wathen said. "We could use this money to put sidewalks in front of people's homes."

"We are putting money back into the city and if we can spare it, and we can give it back to the residents, I think it's a good thing to do," councilwoman Maria Johnson countered. 

Shively residents tell us they'll use the hundred bucks to buy groceries or pay bills.

To get the money, property owners must not owe any back taxes, fines or liens to the city. Checks should go in the mail before the end of the year. 

NOTE: After the meeting, Councilman Ronnie Wathen was arrested for driving under the influence and criminal mischief. 

More: Shively's mayor wants to give every property owner $100

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