BLYTHEWOOD – Town Council passed first reading of its 2018-19 budget Tuesday evening. The proposed $1,565,632 budget reflects $202,111 in building permits and fees, an increase of $17,111 over last year. Council also sees business licenses inside the town increasing from $94,871 to $113,351 and business licenses outside the town increasing from $80,188 to $92,491.
Town Hall salaries include a three percent cost of living and a three percent merit based pot. A sum of $9,250 is set aside in the budget for boardwalk security cameras in the park and $3,500 for supplies for the amphitheater.
The annual economic development grant for the Greater Blythewood Chamber of Commerce will increase from $15,000 to $17,500, and is funded out of the general fund. The Town’s contingency fund is set at $119,877. Council has proposed to increase the visitor’s center funding from accommodation tax to $20,500 from $18,500, and the Historical Society’s funding from $20,500 to $21,500. Council also proposes to fund The Greater Blythewood Chamber of Commerce with $10,000 of accommodation tax revenue for The Big Grab in September, an increase of $1,250 over last year.
A public hearing and second and final vote on the budget will be held during the June 25 council meeting.
