Town Passes 2013 Budget With Employee Bonuses

The town has rolled over $1.1 million from its 2012 budget to its 2013 budget, and the only change with the new budget will be the increased franchise fees and a one-time bonus for town employees.

The $24.5 million budget, which begins Jan. 1, was passed unanimously by council Nov. 14. No one spoke during the public hearing.

Like in 2012, town employees will receive no cost of living increase. However, in 2013, the town will allow a one-time bonus of at least 1-percent to employees. The rest of the bonus is based on merit, determined by each department head.

Earlier this year, council voted to increase franchise fees on utility companies to raise revenue for road construction.

Highlights from the 2013 budget:

• Transfer of $1.1 million to cover cost of street improvements, 10 replacement police vehicles and new training facility for fire department. This fund balance transfer is allowed under a 2011 ordinance adopted by council
• Creation of these new positions: three new captains for fire department, one part-time code enforcement officer, heavy equipment mechanic position, and a full-time human resources position from a former part-time position
• Same millage rate of 62.3 mills
• Increase of franchise fees from three to five percent

Attached to the right of this story is the full budget supplied by the town.