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County Budget Season: Tax Rate, Garbage Fees, More

    Lake County’s property values continue to increase, but have slowed according to data being used by the Lake County Commission to develop this coming year’s operating budget.  The commission has begun developing the spending plan that will take effect on October 1, with county staff proposing a budget based on a 9.76% increase in property values and holding the millage rate at the current 5.0364 mills.
    In recent  years, county property values have grown by double digit percentages.
    In fact, the county is projecting an overall decrease of 1.5% in total revenue in the upcoming budget year, led by a 79% decrease - roughly $350,000  - in grants and aid funds.
    All of the county’s constitutional offices are seeking jumps, with Supervisor of Elections Alan Hays seeking the smallest hike, at 4.4%.  Lake County Property Appraiser Mark Jordan is seeking the largest increase, at 25.9%, citing a need for ten new employees and raises.  The county’s largest single budget category, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, is seeking a 15.3% increase, to pay for salary cost of living increases, insurance and retirement costs, and equipment upgrades.
    Lake County residents could see a decrease of $45 in their fire assessment fees if their home is less than 800 square feet. Other fire assessment fees are expected to remain unchanged.
    Additionally, county garbage customers could expect a $23 increase in garbage hauling fees.
    The commission is expected to continue discussion on the budget during the summer, with budget public hearings set for September 9 and 23.   On July 22, commissioners are expected to vote on the maximum millage rate for the coming fiscal year.