Huntley taxing bodies pass levies

The boards for the village of Huntley and the Huntley Area Public Library District have approved their respective 2010 tax levies.

The village is asking for $3.8 million and the library $3.6 million, though neither taxing body expects to get that much.

The suburban tax cap law prevents both the village and the library from getting more than an extra 2.7 percent over last year's collection. That amount is tied to inflation.

In the village, the levy is $3.8 million after getting about $3.6 million from the 2010 taxes, according to Jennifer Chernak, finance director with the village.

The village cannot legally receive its entire levy, but by asking for more, the village can make sure it gets all to which it's entitled.

“By asking for $3.8 million we'll be sure if there are any changes at the county level, we won't miss anything,” Chernak said.

In the library district, the same rules apply but the board decided to balloon its levy slightly more than the village.

The library district is asking for almost $3.6 million, after getting less than $2.7 million from the last levy.

The total increase the library expects to see will likely cost residents less than $3 per household, according to Library Director Patrick McDonald.

McDonald said the library has taken several steps in 2010 to reduce costs, saving almost $40,000.

“We are very sensitive to the wider economic environment,” McDonald said.

Taxing bodies will find out how much they'll actually get in taxes in April when property values are assessed.