The Williston Park Board of Trustees approved a $6.35 million budget for 2019-20 on Monday night, an increase from the current budget of $6.23 million.
The approved tax levy for the 2019-20 year is $5.2 million. This is an increase of $103,076 from the current budget.
The 2019-20 budget remains below the state 2 percent tax cap. According to village Clerk Julie Kain, the exact tax rates for residents are still being completed.
“It was a very difficult budget to do,” said Mayor Paul Ehrbar. “It took a lot of hard work by the board and especially the village clerk. We are able to come under the cap and still maintain services.”
The budget is intended to be used for basic renovations in the village as well as normal costs such as salaries. Ehrbar and Kain did not describe the planned renovations.
On another issue, Ehrbar said that the water tower being built is on schedule to be completed by June 1. He said that construction is going smoothly and has had no problems.
Further, he said that the old gazebo in town has been removed and a new one has been purchased with grant money. It is supposed to be ready within the next few weeks.
Deputy Mayor Kevin Rhynne discussed the village having a day at Belmont race track, which the village has done in the past. This will be on June 1, and tickets are $15 per person.
The board also discussed a decrease in the number of crimes, and Trustee Michael Uttaro thanked residents for their increased interest in keeping the town safe.
“If … seeing suspicious behavior, call 911,” added Ehrbar. “Don’t worry about a wrong judgment, and don’t get involved. 911 is the key.”
The next workshop is scheduled for Monday, May 6, at 6:30 p.m., and the next public hearing is scheduled for Monday, May 20, at 8 p.m at Village Hall.
