Huntsville Board Finalizes Tax Discount Plan

October 27, 2005

HUNTSVILLE — The Board of Mayor and Aldermen here gave final approval Monday to a plan to offer a tax discount incentive for prompt payment of town taxes.

With an all-aye vote, the board approved the second reading of Ordinance 05-09-01, which will provide a two percent discount to persons paying their taxes in full on or before 30 days after the first Monday in October each year, and a one percent discount to those paying their taxes in full after 30 days but on or before 60 days after the first Monday in October each year.

The second reading of the ordinance followed a public hearing on the matter that was held prior to the start of Monday’s regular session.

By a separate 5-0 vote Monday, the board passed the final reading of an ordinance that amends the town’s zoning regulations in regards to off-premises signs for businesses. The ordinance, which was recommended by the Huntsville Planning Commission, provides for off-premises signs so long as they do not exceed six square feet and do not interfere with traffic or pedestrians. The new regulation also limits such signs to four per business. The measure will take effect on November 8.

In other business Monday, the board passed the first reading of an ordinance to establish a parks and recreation advisory board. The board would consist of five members with staggered terms. Mayor George Potter said that the board was necessary to establish a long-term plan for the town’s parks and recreation, adding that the town “needs to expand the park a little and add some walking trails.”

Vice Mayor Mark Love agreed, stating that the park “is a real asset to the town and should be used as such, and promoted and expanded.”

In Monday’s only other business, the board adopted a drug-free workplace policy, as required by the Tennessee Housing Development Agency. In order to receive grant funds from the THDA, the policy has to be adopted and enforced by municipalities.

Prior to the adjournment of Monday’s meeting, Mayor Potter informed the public that the town’s fire hall addition, which will see an extra bay added to the fire station, is “probably about half done.” He added that the town has collected just over $24,800 in taxes, or approximately 24 percent of its tax budget.

The Town of Huntsville’s Board of Mayor & Aldermen meets monthly on the fourth Monday at 7 p.m. The meetings are held at town hall on Baker Highway in Huntsville and are open to the public.

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