The cost of license plates within the city of Ironton may increase by $5 to help maintain the city’s road and highway systems.

Ironton City Council approved the first reading of an ordinance Thursday to increase the cost by $5. Currently, the cost is approximately $26.

&uot;We have looked at this for 20 years. People that do not drive will not pay,&uot; Mayor Bob Cleary said. &uot;It is a pretty common thing, but I am sure some people will raise (complaints).&uot;

Based on figures provided by the Bureau of Motor Vehicles, the city has 12,978 licensed vehicles within the city. This increase will generate approximately $65,000 annually.

Cleary said it would only be used for street and road repairs and could actually generate significantly more money because the state will usually match whatever funds are used for repair projects.

&uot;We will be able to levy it against other funds and double or triple it every year.&uot;

The city spent $600,000 on paving projects two years ago and plans to spend another $200,000 next spring, Cleary said.

In other business, council approved the first reading of an ordinance to amend the budget for the 2002 fiscal year. This is to account for the hiring of two grant writers for one year. Their salary benefits will be displaced by the United States Enrichment Corporation.

Council adopted a resolution to oppose any reduction in local government funding. Council chairman Jesse Roberts said it is important to pass this because current state legislation could result in a 6 percent income reduction and this establishes the council’s position.

The Council tabled a resolution to initiate paperwork to designate Ironton a historical city as recognized by the Ohio Historical Society.

&uot;Before we encumber citizens of Ironton we should have a committee look at this,&uot; Roberts said.

Council also entered into executive session to discuss compensation of a municipal court employee. No action was taken. Michael Caldwell/The Ironton Tribune