The City Council approved a one percent hike in the city’s property tax levy, a levy that Mayor Dean Maxwell said was just about the lowest in Skagit County. The Council also approved a $39-million city budget for 2011, 3.6% over this year’s budget.
The levy hike will bring in an estimated additional $42,000 to the city coffers next year.
City Council member Cynthia Richardson said “Some people may be concerned we’re raising taxes while they don’t have a job. We’re not insensitive to those issues.” Council member Brad Adams called the budget lean and responsible.