UTICA — During a special council meeting held by the village of Utica on Monday night, council members unanimously approved a resolution to place a property tax levy on the May 3 ballot.
This levy comes after voters rejected a request for an 8-mill levy in the November election. Since then, council has used work sessions to try to balance the village budget. In the course of this period, council made many cutbacks as well as cut positions.
All council members agreed at the meeting, it was necessary to place an 8-mill levy for a three-year period on the ballot in order to provide adequate funds for current expenses of the village. If passed, the levy will generate $199,400.
The property tax, if approved by village residents, would be levied at a rate not exceeding 8 mills for each dollar of valuation, which amounts to $8 in tax for each $1,000 in property valuation. If passed, the levy will go into immediate effect until the three-year term is complete.
Councilman Jack Raines asked if placing a levy on this ballot would incur a cost for the village.
Village Fiscal Officer Anna Flaherty explained that there is no cost to the village during the regularly scheduled elections; only during a special election would the village have to pay the cost for holding the election.
In addition, council accepted the resignation of Councilman Jason Jackson during the meeting. Jackson informed council in his letter of resignation and at the conclusion of last week’s council meeting of his intention, stating his decision to vacate his council seat is because the duties required from his job would hinder his ability to be a dedicated council member.
To fill the vacancy, the council has designated a two-week period, until Jan. 31, in which council will accept resumes and letters of interest prior to making a recommendation for a possible candidate. The mayor will then accept or decline the recommendation to appoint someone to fill Jackson’s vacant seat.
Councilman Lester Grennell announced that the bicentennial committee will meet on Feb. 2, at 7 p.m.
Village council is scheduled to meet in council chambers this year on Feb. 7, March 7, April 11, May 9, June 13, July 11, Aug. 8, Sept. 12, Oct. 10, Nov. 7, Dec. 12. Meetings begin at 7:30 p.m.. For more information on committee meetings as well as special council meetings, visit www.villageofutica.com or e-mail the village at villageofutica@yahoo.com.
