Proposed Tax Levy Consumes City Council Meeting

Effingham City Council members spent much of their time at Tuesday’s meeting discussing the proposed tax levy for the coming fiscal year.

The Council discussed a 0% to 1% increase in the levy. City Administrator Steve Miller suggested a 3% increase, but there was no enthusiasm from the Council on that suggestion.

Even if a 0% increase is passed, the levy would generate an additional $75,000 due to an increase in the City’s equalized assessed valuation.

There was sentiment for a higher levy to keep the City on track on capital projects, and Mayor Mike Schutzbach wants the City to allocate enough dollars to maintain pension funding.

A vote is expected on the levy at the Council meeting in two weeks.

The Council heard about two proposals on Workers Compensation and property/casualty and liability insurance coverage. The Illinois Municipal League proposal is about $45,000 less than this year’s cost.

City Tourism Director Jodi Thoele discussed the 2020 Hometown Christmas Event, scheduled for Friday-Sunday, December 4-6. The event will include a skating rink and the lighting of the Community Christmas Tree.

Director of Public Works Jeremy Heuerman reminded of an Open House for those who qualify for a housing rehabilitation grant program. The Open House will take place this Thursday from 2-6pm at City Hall.