The Carmi City Council met for the final time in November Tuesday evening. Keith Botch of Botch and Associates was on hand and presented the Council with the annual property tax levy. According to Botch, this year’s levy will be under 5%, so a Truth in Taxation hearing will not be necessary and will generate an additional $23,500. The largest expenditure covered by the levy will be to the police pension fund as required by state statute. The levy was approved by a unanimous vote.
The Council then passed Ordinances 1513 and 1514, abating the 2016 tax levy on general obligation bonds 2011A and 2011B meaning there will be no tax levy for the water or electrical system bond issues.
An ordinance to approve the TIF District II was approved, and separate ordinances to designate the TIF District and to adopt tax increment financing were approved unanimously.
The Council unanimously approved the creation of a new enterprise zone, and entered into an intergovernmental agreement with Albion, Grayville, and Edwards and White Counties for operation of the enterprise zone for management and administration. All entities involved must do this as part of the application process.
Bids for unused equipment were received last Thursday, and the Council unanimously agreed to go with the highest bidder in each case.
Mayor Jeff Pollard thanked those who attended the Veterans Day ceremony on the 11th, and thanked the group Rolling Thunder for the donation of a new chair at Veteran’s Park. Pollard reminded residents of the upcoming “It’s A White County Christmas” events, and wished everyone a happy Thanksgiving.
Alderman Shelia Headlee asked if there was a way to divert traffic off of Main Street next year during the Veteran’s Day ceremony. City Clerk Brian Allen and Police Chief Jason Carter said they would look into the matter.
With no closed session needed, the meeting adjourned at 5:53 pm and the Carmi City Council next meets on Tuesday, December 6th.
