Byron sets preliminary levy

The Byron City Council set its preliminary maximum levy, at its most recent meeting, which would not change the tax rate.

“Staff met with the Finance Committee to review the proposed preliminary budget and levy numbers for 2025,” Finance Director Cami Reber wrote in a memo. “After discussion and review, it is our recommendation to set the proposed levy for 2025 at $5,954,067.”

As part of the preliminary levy, it includes $2,740,317 for the General Fund, $1,833,000 to the Capital Improvement Fund, and $1,380,750 for Debt Service which includes tax abatements.

“Approval of this preliminary levy will keep the City tax rate the same from 2024-2025 at 60.60,” Reber said.

It was explained by Reber that the Tax Capacity Value for property in the City increased overall by 2.49 compared to 2023-2024.

“It is the 2024 values that are used for the 2025 tax calculations,” she said.

Increases to the General Fund expenses, would be $107,843, and would be from increases due to staff wages, benefits, general operating costs and the additional cost for the resource officer.

“Health insurance costs will increase 3.5% based on current plan numbers,” Reber said. “The HDHP deductibles are increasing for 2025. The additional contributions to the staff HSA/VEBA plans along with the premium costs for 2025 will have an impact of $7,183.53.”

With the preliminary levy set, it means, the city council can only decrease or keep the levy amount the same when it gives its final approval at the Dec. 10 Truth in Taxation meeting. The meeting will take place at 6 p.m.