Lake Santeetlah – One county township has continued its budget hearing to May 15, after many citizens asked for a second hearing.
The Town of Lake Santeetlah held its first budget hearing on Saturday, giving details of its proposed 2021-22 town budget. As it was a hearing, no action was taken.
However, the hearing gave members of the community a chance to express their concerns regarding the budget. Most of the concerns heard regarded a possible tax increase and the amount of money put toward the planned entranceway for the community.
The cost of the entranceway is projected to be approximately $75,000.
“We’re kind of the island in the sun, out in the desert,” said resident Bob Harper. “We’re kind of the cash cow as far as residential property.”
The town discussed a possible tax increase to .35 mills, over its current rate of .26 mills. Mayor Jim Hager said the possible increase would add $70,000 to the town’s coffers.
When asked why the town couldn’t put off the entranceway for another year and increase the amount of donations funding it, Hager said the current entrance was deteriorating rapidly.
“It’s falling apart,” Hager said. “Those railroad ties were crumbling into the road.”
Resident Heffie Danforth expressed his displeasure with the proposal.
“I oppose doing anything to the front entrance except repairing it, maybe,” Danforth said.
Resident Jack Gross questioned the council several times throughout the proceedings and urged the public to look at the budget and allow the citizens to express their concerns further.
“Please, please, please bring this back to the public,” Gross said. “You are the only stewards of our money.”