Lookout Mountain, Ga., Council Proposes 1st Tax Increase In 12 Years

  • Friday, October 17, 2014
  • Matthew Smisson
The Lookout Mountain, Ga., City Council is proposing the town's first property tax increase in 12 years.
 
On Thursday evening, the council held a public hearing about setting the millage rate for the upcoming year.  Since 2002 the millage rate has remained the same at 8.5 mils, but as Mayor Sandy Gothard stated, the costs of operating the city are more than what they were 12 years ago. 
 
Mayor Gothard announced that, following careful analysis of the city’s budget, the current rate is no longer sufficient and must be increased to continue to provide services to the community and not use reserve funds. 
 
The proposed increase would set the millage rate to 11.235 mils with a reduction of 2.31 mils because of incoming local option sales tax revenue from Walker County.  This would set the new millage rate for 2015 at 8.925 mils. 
 
Another public hearing will take place at city hall next Thursday.
 
Present for the regular meeting was councilman David Fussell, Mayor Gothard, and City Attorney Bill Pickering.  Due to many members being absent from the meeting the council was unable to have a quorum.  However, city manager Brad Haven was present and announced that he estimates the new street signs will be completed by the holidays.  Mr. Haven said he is awaiting the final examples and GDOT guidelines before placing the order in coming days. 
 
Mr. Haven also requested that the city modify current ordinance 107 to require utility companies digging into city streets to use proper materials that will not cause future potholes or further repairs at the city’s expense.  City Attorney Pickering said that he would make the proposed changes to have ready for a first and second reading at subsequent council meetings.  
 
Mr. Haven also stated that the city has recently acquired a new tractor to help with various labor tasks.  He was able to save the city nearly $2,000 with this purchase.  He is also receiving quotes for having the streets striped and new reflectors being installed with an organization out of Knoxville.
 
Police Chief Todd Gann asked the mayor and council to send out a public service announcement to all residents to have their driveways and houses clearly marked with correct address numbers.  This will aid police and emergency crews to be able to better respond to residents in need of assistance.  Mr. Pickering stated that there is an ordinance that requires all houses be visibly marked for 911 or emergency services to locate. 
 
Chief Gann reported that he has new barricades and medical equipment. 
 
Mayor Gothard announced that as of Sept. 22, Rock City Gardens has been placed on the National Historic Register. 
 
The next regular city council meeting will take place Thursday, Nov. 20
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