A resolution was adopted at the Preston City Council’s September 19 meeting setting the 2023 preliminary levy at $1,136,218. This is an increase of $55,522, or 5.14% over 2022’s levy.
Mayor Kurt Reicks noted final figures will be available, for example insurance costs, before the final levy is set in December, which could result in a downward adjustment. The final levy can be lower, but not higher. Councilman Steve Hall related that the city staff did a good job in keeping the increase to about 5% compared to other cities in the surrounding area.
Other business in brief
• City Administrator Ryan Throckmorton reported the Circle Heights Dr. Improvement project is completed. City engineer Brett Grabau recommends paying the first pay request from Griffin Construction Co., Inc. in the amount of $264,743.20. There is a 5% retainage in the amount of $13,933.85. The value of the total completed work is $278,677.05. The pay request was approved.
• Hall asked about the paved trail which goes up to the veterans home. Throckmorton said the trail will remain closed until construction of the veterans home is completed. Until then, it will be barricaded at both the bottom and at the top of the hill. The city council will consider rules on how the trail can be used at a future meeting. Throckmorton welcomed thoughts and questions from city council members. He suggested involving Police Chief Blaise Sass in these discussions. Residents have also had questions about how the trail will be used, including what forms of transportation will be allowed besides walking.
• The bench area in front of the library was discussed briefly. The fountain monument has been moved. New concrete will be installed when Legends Concrete, Inc. is back in town. The possibility of installing a water fountain on the library wall was also discussed. Water piping is already in place.
• A contribution of $1,183.00 to Preston Legion/VFW for the purchase of new American Flags for 2023 was approved. The flags are replaced every other year; the city picks up half the cost.
• The hire of Mary Hershberger as a volunteer EMT for Preston EMS was approved.
• The general election will be held on November 8. The city council will hold its second meeting of the month on Thursday, November 17. The canvassing meeting for the city will occur during that city council meeting.
• The city council will next meet on October 3.