Occupational tax hike public hearing set for 7 p.m. this evening

STAFF REPORT

Thursday, June 2, 2011, 12:15 p.m. — The Bardstown City Council will meet this evening to address questions and concerns about the proposed occupational tax hike.

Mayor Bill Sheckles has proposed doubling the occupational tax rate — from 1/2 to 1 percent — and raising the existing cap from $75,000 to $100,000. Mike Abell, the city’s CFO, has said the tax hike would raise about $250,000 of additional revenue its first year, and about $800,000 each year after that.

Mayor Bill Sheckles has defended the proposal, citing increased costs for maintaining city streets and utilities. The city council is also considering proposed rate hikes for fiscal year beginning July 1 for city water, sewer and cable TV.

The meeting is open to the public. Those who cannot attend may submit their questions by telephone by calling City Hall at 348-5947.

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