Royal City asks Grant County for 1% more

ROYAL CITY - The Royal City Council decided at its meeting of Oct. 7 to ask Grant County for a greater share of property tax revenues generated within the city.

The council took some time to welcome and swear in new council member Tiffany Workinger. She was appointed to the seat previously held by Lisa Rentería, who resigned about a month ago.

A budget workshop was held to consider the coming year. A 2015 draft budget was presented, and revenue and expenses were discussed. The budget is usually adopted in December.

Mayor Kent Andersen closed the regular council meeting at 7:21 p.m. and opened a public hearing regarding the property tax levy. At issue was resolution 14-12, which increases the 2015 regular property tax levy 1 percent from 2014.

According to Finance Director Greg Pike, the city is not asking Royal City taxpayers for more money. It is asking the county for a greater share of what it collects.

After public comment and discussion, Andersen closed the public hearing and reopened the regular city council meeting at 7:24 p.m. A motion was passed to approve resolution 14-12.

"It doesn't amount to much," Pike said. "It's an increase of only about $600."

The council is considering approving a one-time forgiveness to Roberto Aquino for a one month water bill at 301 Hemlock Avenue in the amount of $365.75. It was much higher than normal because of a water line leak.

The council delayed approval to allow time for a policy to be drafted on the issue of one-time forgiveness. The city does not have such a policy, according to Pike.

A motion was passed to renew the cost sharing agreement with Grant County Health District for 2015 and to commit funds in the amount of $1.50 per resident.

Public Works Director John Lasen reported that well No. 4 is fine. A bad sensor was at fault for giving bad readings of the well's static level. It has been replaced.

Andersen requested an ordinance be drafted to restrict semi-tractor trailers from using residential streets. Meanwhile the council directed Lasen to order and install signage directing semi-tractor trailers to exit Mack's Mocha's parking lot through the exit furthest from Highway 26.

Trucks are using the entrance as an exit, Pike said. It's quite close to the highway, and trucks that use it often block Royal Ave.