Ottawa tax levy to increase by $665,000

The Ottawa City Council on Tuesday hosted a truth-in-taxation hearing, allowing for public comment regarding the city’s levy increase.

According to City Treasurer Don Harris, the city’s requested levy is for an addition $665,000 this year over what it received last year, bringing the total request to $9,565,965.

However, he added he expected the property tax rate to decline by nearly 4%, or 9.5 cents per $100 of equalized assessed valuation.

“However, while we are requesting more dollars than last year at this point, we expect the actual levy rate to decline,” Commissioner of Accounts and Finance Wayne Eichelkraut said.

A truth-in-taxation hearing is mandated whenever the amount of funds levied increases 5% more than the levy received the previous year.

Property owners still may find their bills have increased because their property has been accessed at a higher value.

In other action, the council:

Approved a change order from JW Ossola Co. Inc. for an increase of $4,089 for the final payment on the Oak Terrace water main extension project.

Reappointed Tim McTaggart to the Board of Fire and Police Commissioners.

Approved a resolution authorizing a proposal for grant assistance services from Lexipol regarding Ottawa Fire Department radios.

Approved a quote from Air One Equipment Inc. of $20,196 for 56 sections of hoses.