With the temporary 0.

Wednesday, October 03, 2001

With the temporary 0.45 percent increase in the city’s municipal income tax looming on the horizon, city officials expected to see a crowd of residents at the city’s first "town meeting" to discuss the tax – but that wasn’t the case.

Only a handful of people showed up at Ironton Middle School last night to hear the city’s presentation on why residents need to vote for the increase in the municipal tax. The majority of those that did show up were city employees – mostly firemen – with only a few private citizens.

Despite the low turnout, Mayor Bob Cleary unveiled the city’s presentation on why government officials believe a municipal tax is needed.

Cleary discussed the city’s financial position and the efforts the city has taken to overcome a financial crunch. During that time, he explained how the increase in the city’s municipal tax will help bail out the city.

Audience members were able to ask city government officials questions, in the form of written questions or comments submitted after the presentation.

The next meeting is scheduled for October 9 at 7 p.m. at the office of Operation Be Proud.