Electric City to seek smaller levy for police service

Electric City’s council, in a special meeting Tuesday night, voted to place a levy on the November general election ballot for police services.

The total levy amount that the city could ask for is $3.10 per thousand of assessed valuation; that’s an increase to residents of 90 cents.

The city had hoped to double its levy amount, asking for $2.21 more, but was told by the county auditor’s office that $3.10 is all the city could ask for. The city’s current levy is $2.1957 per thousand dollars of assessed valuation.

The increase of 90 cents will raise about $55,000 for the city to apply towards whatever police plan it comes up with.

Currently, Electric City uses $80,000 from its general fund to pay the city of Grand Coulee for police coverage.

Two council members from each government worked out a plan that extends the law enforcement contract with Grand Coulee for another year at $115,000.

Electric City Mayor Jerry Sands indicated Tuesday night that he prefers having his own police department, but the restricted levy amount will force the city to look at all options it has, none of which are apparent at this time.

If residents pass the levy Nov. 4, it will mean that they will pay $90 more in taxes for a $100,000 residence.