Ila council approves tax rate, budget

The budget includes a $2 increase in water rate fees, with a base rate of $20, and an increase in garbage collection to $14.50 (citizens currently pay $13.65). There is no tax increase or salary increase for city employees in the budget. The tax rate was approved at 3.92 mills.

City clerk Susan Steed reported that no election will be held in November since all candidates are running with no opposition.

The council agreed to allow Utility Service Communications to market the water tower as a telecommunications site, provided city attorney Pat Graham approves the contract.

The council heard from company representative Debbie Sullivan, who explained that marketing the site will incur no costs to the city, with the company doing all of the marketing and management. The council agreed that the program would be a source of revenue for the water system, with the city receiving an annual revenue check each March 1.

Mayor Mike Coile reported that the town’s weather sirens have been repaired. He also reported that the Ila VFD has sent in an application to apply for a lower ISO rating, which can lower homeowners’ insurance premiums for fire protection.

The mayor and council held a moment of silence for all those who lost their lives on Sept. 11, 2001, and for all who continue to serve and protect the country.