UTICA — After an extensive discussion during a special Utica village council meeting, members voted unanimously to pass a resolution to place an 8-mill levy on the November ballot.

Residents were welcome to the open meeting to discuss the issue but only two were present to express their concerns.

One concerned resident had many questions.

“What’s the amount on the real estate levy that you are talking about?” he asked.

Mayor Larry Friesel explained the levy would generate $199,400 over a three-year term for the village. Someone with a home appraisal value of $100,000 would see an increase in property taxes at approximately $240 a year.

He continued by questioning the ability of the village to pass such a measure, especially with such economic hard times.

“I don’t know whether it will get passed or not, but I do know that if it doesn’t get passed the village will be facing shut down of most of its services,” said Friesel.

A resident asked Friesel if the village has made any cuts prior to asking for money from taxpayers.

kenesha.beheler@mountvernonnews.com