Town of Meeker reduces mill levy

MEEKER I In its final regular meeting for 2009, Meeker’s board of trustees officially approved a mill levy reduction for the coming year.
Record high property valuations would have generated an additional $66,000 in property tax revenue for the town, with business property owners taking the biggest hit.
Based on the current economy, and the struggles of small business owners to stay afloat, town staff recommended instituting a temporary mill levy reduction that will hold property tax revenue to the same amount collected in 2009. The board approved the ordinance in a unanimous decision at the Dec. 8 meeting.
The town has its own budget constraints to face in the next year, with changes in usual income sources such as grant monies and severance tax dollars in question.
“Employees will not receive raises (in 2010). Health insurance benefits have increased 6 percent,” Town Administrator Sharon Day told the board of trustees.
The town’s proposed 2010 budget was passed by the board. The general fund, including reserves, stands at around $8 million.
“The town board and staff will work hand in hand to deliver the town’s services in the best manner possible,” Day concluded.