A public hearing was held at the May 4 meeting of the Preston City Council to consider transferring the city’s duties and powers of the Local Board of Appeal and Equalization to the county.
Mayor Kurt Reicks noted that the city rarely has changed anything for citizens that have come with an appeal at the LBAE meeting. For example, at the LBAE meeting held this year on April 20 one business’s concern was discussed. The council voted “no change” and recommended the concern be taken to the county’s Appeal and Equalization meeting.
Councilman Steve Hall said he supported the transfer as there seems to be a consensus to simplify the process. There were no comments from the public.
A resolution was unanimously approved transferring the duties to the county for assessment years 2027, 2028, and 2029. The city has the option to reinstate these duties at the conclusion of this three-year period by providing notice to the county on or before December 1 of the year prior to the assessment year in which the city intends to resume duties.
Other Business in Brief
•A resolution was also unanimously approved governing write-in voting as recommended by staff. The council approved the option that requires any candidate wishing to have their write-in votes recorded must file a written request with the city clerk no later than the 19th day before any municipal election.
•The formation of a community pool committee has been established by the Park Board. The committee will evaluate the need for a public pool, review locations and designs, explore funding options, estimate capital and operational cost, engage the public, and provide updates and a final recommendation to the Park Board. Hall said the committee will have 9-11 members. Five members will be appointed from established city and community boards; one of these will be a city council member. Four members are to be appointed from the community at large.
Councilman Jon Wood volunteered to represent the city council on the committee. The committee hopes to get plans in place for a potential referendum this November.
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