Even though discussion was paused Tuesday night on the Marion County property tax levy, one of those pushing for a zero-increase levy says he’s not giving up.
Josh Dunahee would like to see the zero levy instead of the one prepared for the board that would include a 2.9-percent cost of living increase.
While the large group that filled the third-floor courtroom answered Dunahee that indicated they would accept a tax hike for better roads, he’s not yet ready to agree to the increase.
“I was glad to see that the public raised their hand because ultimately, we do complain about roads constantly,” Dunahee said, “and for them to say that they are willing to pay more to have roads as far as being tarred and chipped, whatever the case may be, that they were in agreeance with it.”
If the county board doesn’t approve the full amount available to them for roads, the state will cut back their funding.
The county board needs to make a decision on the amount of its levy as well as finalize its budget at a special meeting at three on Friday afternoon.
The board learned the county has been removed from the state’s stop pay list because the 2024 audit is nearly complete.
The board okayed Farm Fresh Market Gift Cards as a Christmas gift for employees. Full time workers will get $50 and part-time workers $25.
Building Committee Chair Deb Reed reported the new roof on the Public Service Building is complete.
The board approved a number of appointments without using their new process that requires a 90-day posting period to give others a chance to apply for open positions that come before the county board. Centralia Police Chief Chris Locke, Centralia Fire Chief Jeff Day and Salem Deputy Police Chief Tyler Rose were reappointed to the Marion County Emergency Telephone Board. The board approved the recommendation of Sheriff Kevin Cripps to appoint David Hiltibidal to a two-year term, David Black to a four-year term and Albert Gallatin to a six-year term on the Merit Commission Board. Nancy Lackey and Ray Bowers were reappointed to the Marion County Housing Authority Board.
