Phoenixville council eyes 19% tax hike
Phoenixville Borough Council voted to advertise a proposed $7.6 million 2012 budget that includes a 19 percent tax increase. The proposed millage increase, .84, means a household appraised at $100,000 would pay $84 more in real estate taxes next year. The new millage rate is 5.25, up from last year’s 4.41. Borough Council was tasked with balancing the budget with a $144,338 shortfall in the general fund. The preliminary budget takes into account the debt service for a bond to complete capital improvements (.71 mill). The $10.9 million bond accounts for $2 million for repairs to water infrastructure, $500,000 in improvements to the wastewater treatment plant, and an $8 million new borough hall. After an executive session, council agreed to take the steps needed to issue the bond for the new borough hall. The proposed budget includes increases for the cost of sewer and water for residents: $5.15 per thousand gallons for sewer and $6.80 – up from last year’s $6.15 – for water. The shortfall of $144,338 was reduced to $111,000 with various adjustments. The gap was closed with an increase to the cost of safety permits and licenses and a .13 mill increase to the general fund. A public hearing is set for Dec. 13, during which Borough Council will vote on the final budget for 2012.
Source: The Mercury; 12/1/2011
Horseshow grounds condemnation sets off major debate in West Vincent
West Vincent Township Supervisors announced a decision to condemn a 33-acre tract of land last week in a news release as part of their “ongoing effort to fulfill the vision of its Ludwig’s Corner Strategic Vision and Community Design Plan.” The plan calls for “a compact, walkable, traditional village center containing a blend of municipal, commercial and residential uses.” Supervisors said they intended to incorporate the grounds into their master land-use plan as a public park, offering both active and passive recreation, such as playing fields for local youth leagues. The announcement was met with protests from members of the community and the current owners of the land, the Ludwig’s Corner Horse Show Association. West Vincent Supervisors opted to table discussion of the issue at a recent meeting, but decided not to vote to rescind the condemnation Monday night due to Supervisor Ken Miller’s absence.
Source: Daily Times; 12/6/2011
West Chester seeks volunteers for 2012 Boards and Commissions
Much of the important work of the Borough of West Chester is done by volunteers serving on appointed Boards and Commissions. These volunteer Boards and Commissions provide Borough Council with advice on various matters and help to deliver quality municipal services. Follow the link below for a list of the Boards and Commissions that will have vacancies in January 2012 along with a brief description of their function and the qualifications for serving. Click here to find out more information.
E. Marlborough raises taxes for fire department
Residents will see a $50 to $60 increase in their tax bills next year as part of East Marlborough Township’s efforts to support the financially ailing Po-Mar-Lin Fire Company. The township’s supervisors have been concerned for years that the all-volunteer fire company serving East and West Marlborough, Newlin and Pocopson townships was losing money and might one day be forced to close. A 0.3-mill tax increase to the 2012 budget will provide an estimated $206,000 a year for fire protection.
Source: Daily Local; 12/7/2011
