(KNOX) – The East Grand Forks City Council moved unanimously to a three percent increase to the 2024 tax levy…collectable in 2025.
Tuesday’s required budget hearing saw 2025 expenses exceed revenues by more than 552-thousand dollars. That will be reported to the state. Mayor Steve Gander praised the levy-reducing effort.
The council also moved for a tax abatement on 14 listed properties under the New Home Construction Program.
The Council moved in favor of employer health insurance contributions for firefighters, law enforcement, plus state, county, municipal and non-union employees.
The vote was not unanimous.
Alderman Clarence Vetter objected to the payment as a percentage instead of a set amount, a process he saw as “a step backward.”
The council also moved to establish zoning districts for cannabis and hemp businesses.
They approved the site use agreement with Nutrition Services Inc. for the Senior Center kitchen; formally requested $126,000 in project funds for Griggs Park playground equipment, community tree planting, a library sensory garden and LaFave Park improvements.
The council also hired Herman Gray as a police officer.
The council will finalize the 2025 budget on December 17 and send it to the state before the end of the month.
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