Trustees Consider Raising Levy: Taxes Would Go Up, Too

Sturtevant trustees are considering raising the 2013 levy, which means residents could see higher property tax bills next year.

Board members can raise the levy by the same percent the village had in net new construction. In Sturtevant, net new growth in 2011 comes to 0.8 percent, but trustees have asked Interim Administrator Mary Cole to look at whether or not they can use a debt service formula to raise the 2013 levy by 1.8 percent instead.

The board is considering raising the levy, in part, because the state has reduced transportation aid by $46,000. Sturtevant's 2012 budget was about $4 million so the 1.8 percent levy increase would net about $38,000 to make up some of that shortfall.

Village President Steve Jansen expressed outrage that Sturtevant has worked hard over the last decade to get its financial house in order and if Madison set a biennial budget, asked why the numbers keep going down. He also urged trustees to call Rep. Robin Vos, the village's assemblyperson.

"Other communities have not been as good at looking forward like we have, but we keep getting kicked in the teeth," he said "I want to know why the restraints on municipalities aren't also put on other taxing bodies like the school districts. Let's call Robin Vos and ask him."

Jansen wasn't the only board member unhappy with the dilemma facing trustees, but without raising the levy - and taxes - the village may not be able to afford hiring a new full-time officer next year to replace someone who resigned this year.

"I hate having to even think about (raising taxes), but we have to provide services," said Trustee Chris Larsen. "I'm willing to take it on the chin with residents about this because I just don't see another way."