The levy for 2019 is set at $4.7 million. The 2018 levy is $4.5 million. An interesting aspect is that despite the levy increase the city property tax impact will be a 0.33 percent decrease.

“Of the 14 cities that Fairmont compares itself to, we’re fourth to the lowest,” according to City Adminstrator Mike Humpal adding that “Fairmont’s taxes remain competitive.”

Included in the budget under improvement projects in capital expenditures is $3.5 million for a proposed community center. City Finance Director Paul Hoye noted that the Community Center action committee will have to raise $10.7 million in private donations before the city will spend any of the $3.5 million for it.

The council approved a resolution vacating a portion of Geraldine Street. The street is unimproved and the area acts as a storm water runoff and contributes to storm water management in the area. Also approved were a Social Host Ordinance, a tax abatement for Great Plains Transportation Services for an addition to their property at 923 N. State Street for a period of 10 years were also approved.

The council was introduced to new Fairmont Police Officer Chelsea Yeager and were informed of Lt. Eric Tonder’s promotion to Captain of the Fairmont Police Department.