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New London raises tax rate

The New London Common Council approved the city’s 2012 budget unanimously at its Nov. 8 meeting.

No citizens spoke during the public hearing.

The city’s total tax levy will rise in 2012 by less than 1 percent, from $2.58 million to just under $2.6 million.

This year’s property tax rate is at $8.21 per $1,000 of equalized value, which is up 20 cents from last year’s rate.

“There is no increase in taxes this year, but the increase in the levy rate is due to a drop in equalized value,” said Treasurer/Finance Director Judy Radtke.

The city has not revalued properties, and most property owners won’t see much of a decrease in the assessed values of their properties. However, due to the drop in equalized values for the city as a whole, an increase to the rate was necessary to allow the city to collect the same amount in taxes as it did last year.

The council also adopted a flood plain amendment involving the area starting at the black iron bridge and extending upstream about 550 feet.

“If you’re a landowner, this is for the better,” Mayor Gary Henke said. “If you’re a fish, maybe not.”

Documentation on the city’s workplace threat and violence policy was also passed by a 9-1 vote, with Tom O’Connell voting no.

The Park and Rec department reported that the tennis courts at Hatten Park are in need of resurfacing. A floating tile method or a seal coating method are being discussed. The Parks Committee would like to have a special fund set up for money to accumulate each year, and they are also asking if the school district would contribute money to the fund each year for the next 3-5 years. The fund would be used for other tennis courts as well, not just the ones at Hatten Park.

The Parks Committee hopes to split the $18,000 seal coat cost with the school district, pending School Board approval.

The Economic Development Committee had a guest speaker at their most recent meeting, as Clintonville City Administrator Lisa Kuss talked about recent developments in Clintonville, including the arrival of Walgreens, pending agreement with Kwik Trip, and expansions of Walker Forge and Klein Auto.

Kuss explained that expanding existing businesses is where a city can gain the most. “You need to be open to assisting your existing businesses,” Kuss stated. “New businesses usually only come if it is part of their business plan. But whenever possible, cut the red tape, think outside the box, and develop close relationships with your local businesses.”

The council was informed that new billboards promoting the New London industrial park have been erected on Hwy. 45. The billboards bear a slogan regarding “cutting the red tape.”

The New London Police Department will hold concealed carry classes on Dec. 3 at the Washington Center from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. This will be a course sanctioned by the Department of Justice.

Nomination papers for upcoming elections can be circulated beginning Dec. 1 for the five alderperson positions, mayor’s position, and city attorney position.

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