The Salem City Council will be asked to pass its annual tax levy at Monday night’s meeting. The levy is 3.95-percent higher than the prior year’s extension. Since it is below five percent, no truth in taxation hearing will be necessary.
The council will be asked to move forward with city hall masonry work even though the cost could be much higher than the $105,000 budgeted. City staff is recommending Western Specialty Contractors for a base bid of $138,000 with a total expenditure of up to $200,000 if additional work or remediation becomes necessary. It was noted construction costs are unlikely to decrease over time and postponing necessary maintenance may ultimately place a greater financial burden on taxpayers. Four bids were received on the project.
The council will also be asked to approve a bluegrass Festival planned by the Oddfellows the weekend of April 23rd and24th.
The council will consider a special use permit to allow conversion of a building at 401 South College into a duplex. Cory Thorsen is requesting the permit. He plans to invest $60,000 into the project. The planning commission has already given its unanimous approval.
The council meeting begins at six Monday night at Salem City Hall.
