Arlington Hts. plans no property tax increase

Arlington Heights will request the same amount of property tax revenue in 2011 as it did last year, the village board decided tentatively Monday.

In addition, general fund expenses for the year starting May 1 will be limited to a maximum increase of $2.2 million.

The village's property tax levy will again be $42.6 million, including the $13 million set by the board of the Arlington Heights Memorial Library, which for the second consecutive year asked for no property tax levy increase.

Changes in pension laws and reduction of debt payments are the main reasons the village can hold the line, according to a report from Thomas F. Kuehne, finance director.

The effect on individual tax bills will depend on such issues as changes in assessed values and the state multiplier. Also, the village's share of tax bills has traditionally been about 11 percent.

The board also gave preliminary approval to holding the general fund expenses for the fiscal year that starts in May to $65.8 million, up from $63.6 million.

Any village contribution toward the fight against the emerald ash borer could come from the village's reserves, village Manager Bill Dixon said in response to a question from Trustee Norm Breyer.

“We need some way that we can provide residents at least seed money,” said Breyer. “The whole character of the village would change if all of these trees disappear.”

The board is expected to discuss the fight against EAB at a December meeting. One-third of the parkway trees in Arlington Heights are ash. Officials have indicated that any decision to treat trees would involve financial contributions from residents.

The rosier view for village finances includes increased revenue in economy-dependent areas such as sales tax and permit fees. Village staff also recommends retaining the utility taxes that the board had hoped to reconsider this fall.

Cuts in expenses include 46 fewer jobs due to vacancies and layoffs over three years and zero salary increases except for longevity-based step raises during the current fiscal year.