The city of Murray will pay for some big-ticket items this year with a 4% property tax increase.
In a strained meeting last night, members voted to raise taxes 8-4.
Last year, Murray opted out of the increase in light of an 8% alcohol tax. But Mayor Bill Wells says a new fire ladder truck, increased salaries for police, fire and dispatch workers among other big projects put Murray in need of the increase.
"So, if we do that, and it’s been OK’d by the City Council, we’ve go to pay for it," Welss said. "And one way is about a gain on the 4% of I think about $160,000. We could obviously use that."
The City Council will also use the funds to pay for a $50,000 piece of land on the corner of Squire and Robertson roads.
The council opted for the purchase after an executive session last night.
The land will be used for a new fire station in next year’s budget.
