Monterey A Step Closer To Passing Budget

Monterey aldermen approved a new budget on first and second reading Monday night.

Mayor Bill Wiggins said he’s happy to see the board agree on the budget, but concerned about the timing.

“It’s been a deliberative process and finally we’ve come up with a first and second reading approval of what seems to be a consensus of the board,” Wiggins said. “I’m just a little edgy about the date that tax notices are going to be going out. They’re going to be delayed significantly. We need that flow of tax money starting in October, but that prospect is not very bright right now.”

Monday’s vote of approval came two months after the board voted against the $4.6 million budget. Wiggins said the town has operated on a continuing budget since July.

“These things should be done in a timely fashion. We should have had the tax rate set and the budget in place by July 1st, but now it’s going to be late August,” Wiggins said. “With all the paperwork that has to occur, and triggering those tax notices being mailed out, it’s delayed significantly.”

The new spending plan includes a 3-cent property tax increase and a 3-percent cost of living adjustment for city employees.

Vice Mayor Starlett Wessels and Alderman Amy Martin voted against the proposed $1.36 tax rate.

Third and final reading of the new budget will take place Tuesday, August 20th.