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City Council Divided On Tax Levy
Members of the Galesburg City Council have differences of opinion on just what to do about the city's property tax levy in the coming year.

Aldermen Tuesday night heard about four possible tax levy solutions -- all would raise property tax bills somewhat, although only one of those four keeps the current levy rate same. They're all coupled with an expected drop in property values in the coming year.

At issue is the city's desire to fund pension levels at least equal to an annual required contribution nearing 90-percent -- currently, police and fire pensions are funded at around 59 percent.

First Ward Alderman Ken Goad says the solution is simple.

"A lot of people in Galesburg have had to pull their horns in financially because the money isn't there, and I think we as a city have to do that as well," Goad says. "There seems that at times we spend, spend, spend. I know money is put away for vehicles and computers and a variety of things, but I think we need to quit spending money like we have it."

Other aldermen suggested things like looking at things like the sales tax, while others said that none of the options presented really address the problem in the long term.

A more firm levy won't be considered by the City Council until likely November.
09 07 11 by Newsroom
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