Residents question mill levy increases in budget
New Goessel budget raises city tax levy by 17 mills
Several residents were in attendance at the Goessel City Council meeting Aug. 15 to discuss the 2003 budget. Concerns were raised about the increase of 17 mills. Jan Nolde, accountant with Swindoll, Janzen, Hawk and Loyd, pointed out that due to an error at the state level revenues for 2002 would be less than expected and that a raise of at least 10 mills would be necessary to break even.
City clerk Anita Goertzen explained that 1 mill is equal to $1,856.
The budget was approved 3-2 after Mayor Peggy Jay cast the tie-breaker yes vote.
Arlen Goertzen, public works director, reported that the sewer lines in the east end of town have been flushed and work has been started on grouting the sewer lines behind the civic center.
Goertzen informed the council that he would like to get information from KRWA on their utility mapping service which locates lines so the mapping would be more accurate. King Design will have an estimate for utility mapping at the next council meeting.
The Audit and Budget Contract with Swindoll, Janzen, Hawk and Loyd was approved 4-0.
The consent agenda was approved 4-0.
Eric Reed, police officer, gave a report of police activity between July 13 and Aug. 15. He discussed the possibility of applying for an equipment grant for the police department to purchase a new light bar for the police car and new radar guns. He also suggested inviting school officials to the next council meeting for an open discussion on expectations of law enforcement between the city and the schools.
Racquel Thiesen reported on vandalism to the shelter house in the park.
Anita Goertzen reported on the Right of Way Summit that she and Arlen Goertzen attended in Topeka. Anita Goertzen also reported on a meeting she had with the attorney concerning the steps needed to have two houses condemned or repaired.
The council received a letter from Bethesda Home requesting a letter of support of an application for Section 5310 Capital Funding to purchase a handicapped accessible mini-van. The consensus of the council was to write a letter of support.
