SMETHPORT — Smethport Borough continues to hold the line on taxes.
With just four members present Monday — the minimum number for a quorum — borough council adopted the 2017 budget that keeps tax rates at their current levels for yet another year.
According to the ordinance that was passed unanimously, the tax rate for general revenue purposes will be .665 mills on each dollar of assessed valuation, or .0665 cents on each $100 of assessed valuation.
For fire protection purposes, the rate will be .325 mills on each dollar of assessed valuation or .0325 cents on each $100 of assessed valuation.
The tax rate for support of Hamlin Memorial Library remains at .10 mills on each dollar of assessed valuation or .01 cents on each $100 of assessed valuation.
The ordinance also spells out the penalties for late payment of taxes.
Meanwhile, the per capita tax levy remains at $5 on all adult — 18-years-old and older — residents of the borough.
In another vote, council adopted an ordinance that includes renewing the cable franchise agreement with Comcast.
Councilman Ryan Yingling spoke about a suggestion to possibly use the tennis courts in Hamlin Lake Park for ice skating this winter. During discussions with officials at the county redevelopment authority, Yingling said he was informed that since the borough does not get Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) funding, any damage to the courts’ surface would be the borough’s responsibility.
On the plus side of the matter, a white plastic liner would be placed over the courts before flooding. In addition, lighting is already at the site, and the area can be locked when not in use.
Yingling said redevelopment officials took no position on the suggestion.
Council registered no objections to the matter.
Council President Greg Rounsville read a letter from the owner of the building that houses the borough offices in which the landlord stated the steps he has taken to resolve some of the borough’s concerns.
Rounsville also announced that the borough’s revised floodplain maps have been approved.
Councilman Jeff Tanner commended borough employees for planting 18 trees recently.
In a report to council, Matt Dart noted that repairs to the Smethport Memorial Recreation Center, the town’s swimming pool, are now about 75 percent complete. This work involves sealing cracks in the outside wall where the south side apron and concrete apron meet.
Council approved the interim appointment of Brian Swanson to the Borough of Smethport Authority.
