THAT, to insure all vehicles the town owns, it cost the taxpayers $14,470.48 this year.

THAT, after the public presentation of our budget, Council had a special meeting to further reduce expenses and lower the mill rate by an additional 0.525 for a total mill rate decrease of 1.150 mills.

Question of the Week: In the last column you stated that Council had a Capital Investment Program which allows you to plan for large purchases and projects. You mentioned new equipment for the fire department and some drainage costs. What else is in this plan?

Answer: For 2006 the other areas we have budgeted for are as follows: $75,000 for land development, $13,000 for grass cutting equipment, $70,000 for utility pumps, and $15,000 to begin planning for Park Avenue reconstruction. These items will be funded through reserves and the operating budget. Paving is funded through debt and this year we are looking at financing approximately $342,516 to complete our planned projects. This plan will look 10 years into the future, and was part of forming Council’s decision process for the 2006 budget.