Luverne Could See Possible Tax Increase

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People in one south Alabama city could soon pay more in taxes. City officials will decide on the new budget and some are unhappy with the proposed increase.
 

It was a packed house at the Luverne council meeting.
People showed up in big numbers to show their dissapproval for the proposed 1 cent sales tax increase.

The vote was supposed to take place last Monday. But due to the overwhelming number of people against it, the council decided to spend more time taking another look at the plan.
It’s a plan some don’t like, and don’t want. Many also say the city should also do a better job of being more transparent.

According to records. As of August 31st, the city of Luverne collected 795 thousand dollars for the 2014 budget. But only 733 thousand dollars was needed to meet the budget. So far the city has spent 76 percent of that money.

City Councilman Charlie Johnson says the city would rather have more money on hand, instead of borrowing, and paying interest. But that’s still not sitting well with people faced with the possibility of paying higher taxes, and they hope city leaders will find a better way to balance its budget.

We tried to get in contact with the mayor. He is currently out of town but they’re expecting a vote on this tax increase in the next coming weeks.

The people of Luverne say they will continue to fight the proposed tax if the City Council decide to put it up for a vote.