City levymay increase 5.73 percent for 2018

The tax levy in Luverne is set to increase by 5.73 percent, according to action at the Luverne City Council meeting Tuesday, Sept. 12.
As required by law, the city set it’s proposed 2017 tax levy — payable in 2018. It can be lowered at a later date, but not increased.
The City Council reviewed the five-year capital improvement plan at the July 13 meeting and the proposed 2018 operating budget at the Aug. 15 meeting.
The levy has been set at $1,815,828, which includes the general fund, debt service and TIF fund deficit.
That levy is an increase of $98,435 over the current levy.
At the Sept. 13 meeting, the council noted it’s operating with a balanced budget and has a AA bond rating.
The council set the Truth in Taxation hearing for Dec. 12, and the final levy will be certified late in December.
 
In other business at the Sept. 12 meeting, the council:
•set a public hearing for 5 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 10, in Luverne City Hall council chambers on proposed assessments for unpaid utility bills and miscellaneous work (mowing, snow removal, tree work, etc.). Letters will be sent to affected property owners.
•designated two parcels for the public purpose of economic development. The city purchased property just off South Highway 75 (the old CHS building) and also 108 West Barck. To comply with state assessing law the city (a tax-exempt entity), needs to publicly state the purpose of the parcels for future development.
•amended the city zoning map from commercial to residential use in the Tri-State Addition inside Roundwind Road. (see related story