By Shannon Wright
Good news for Sibley residents during the June meeting came with the Town Council’s decision to keep the town’s millage rates unchanged, meaning there will be no increase in property taxes.
“We did not raise our millage; we are keeping the same millage we had last year,” said Mayor Robert Smart.
While property taxes will stay the same, residents will see changes to water and sewer rates. Town officials explained that the increase was necessary for two primary reasons. First, maintaining certain rate levels is required for eligibility when seeking state and federal funding opportunities. Second, the town must ensure that utility services remain financially sustainable as operating costs continue to rise.
Mayor Smart noted that officials worked to minimize the impact on residents who use the least amount of water.
“We tried to keep the burden off of the elderly and disabled, those who don’t use more than the minimum, to keep their rates as low as possible,” said Smart. “The base rate was only increased by eighty cents per month.”
Residents who use more than the minimum allotment of 2,000 gallons per month will see a larger increase based on their usage.
The council also approved an increase in rental rates for the community center. Officials said the adjustment was necessary to help offset the cost of significant plumbing repairs currently underway. The rental rate had remained unchanged for many years.
As part of ongoing improvements, the town plans to add additional tables and chairs to the facility, while remaining within occupancy limits established by the fire marshal.
Council members also reminded residents that the dumpster located outside the community center is reserved for renters and is not intended for public use. Those renting the facility are asked to ensure dumpster lids remain closed to prevent trash and debris from being blown into surrounding areas.
Residents were also informed that the town’s splash pad is temporarily out of service following a lightning strike that damaged its motherboard. Herrington Communications is expected to send a technician to rewrite the program and restore operations as quickly as possible.
Mayor Smart emphasized that vandalism at the town’s park and playground areas will not be tolerated. Town officials have invested considerable time and money into creating recreational spaces for local families, but damage has already been reported to picnic tables.
The town encourages residents to follow the Sibley Town Hall Facebook page for updates regarding the splash pad, playground improvements, community announcements, and upcoming events.
The mayor and council continue to stress the importance of community involvement and remind residents that Town Council meetings are held on the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at Town Hall. All residents are welcome and encouraged to attend.