by AnnGardner Eubank
KILMARNOCK—The Kilmarnock Town Council discussed additions at Town Centre Park and hinted at a possible meals tax increase during a budget workshop on Thursday, April 22.
To begin the workshop, town manager Susan Cockrell provided a general summary of key aspects of the current year financials. According to Cockrell, revenue streams have been recovering the past several months, increasing by 1% from 2020.
Among highlights for 2021 compared to 2020, Cockrell noted the revenue from the sales tax is up by 19%, bank stock is up by 4% and business license tax is up by 2.5%.
Cockrell also said water and sewer revenues have increased slightly by 2.8% and 3.7%, respectively.
Capital funds
According to working documents distributed for the workshop, estimated 2021 general capital expenditures total $21,211, including $6,840 for public works equipment and $14,371 for the purchase of a pickup truck.
For fiscal year 2022, $86,500 is requested for general fund capital improvement expenditures, including $60,000 for welcome signage, $10,000 towards new play equipment and enhancements to the town center park, $9,000 for a lawnmower and $7,500 towards public works equipment.
Council discussed whether $10,000 was too much to put towards playground equipment.
Councilman Curtis Smith said funds should be allocated elsewhere….[to-view-more]