The Sullivan Swimming Pool is pictured earlier this year before repairs were made. The pool is one of the items that could be improved if voters transition the Elmont overpass sales tax to a parks tax.
Parks Tax Expected To Be On Ballot
The Sullivan City Council is moving forward with a half-cent sales tax proposal for the parks and recreation system.
The measure will appear on the April 4, 2023 ballot.
The 2004 half-cent transportation sales tax that funded the Elmont overpass is due to sunset and the city wants to renew it for the parks system.
City Administrator J.T. Hardy addressed the council, saying the sales tax is set to expire in 2024. The citizens of Sullivan have the opportunity to transition the half-cent sales tax from transportation to the parks system.
“If approved, there would be no increase in the current sales tax rate,” said Hardy. “The funds currently being collected for the Elmont overpass would be directed to the parks and recreation department and park projects.”
Hardy reported that the city is growing and needs continue to change. A Parks and Recreation Comprehensive Plan could be conducted to give the city leadership insight on what types of parks improvements are needed and where they should be located.
Hardy stated that one immediate need is the 1993 swimming pool complex that is outdated and in need of increased operations costs and maintenance.
Several other projects are before the city and requested include a new soccer complex, improvements to baseball and softball fields, new playgrounds, new walking trails, fairground improvements, lake improvements, dedicated football fields and additional splash pads.
Alderman Jason Alexander stated he would like to sponsor this proposed tax ordinance for the issue to be placed on the April ballot.
The council approved the purchase of a new lift station for a new subdivision Triple D Estates at a cost of $25,463 from Vandevanter Engineering. The grinder lift will match existing Sullivan Sewer system operations with the city being reimbursed from the developer once the system is installed and operational.
The monthly bills were approved for payment in the amount of $1,965,970.38.
Three ordinances were approved by the council that included:
Ord. 3979, approved Corner Place Subdivision located on Alice St. and owners by Corner Place Development LLC;
Ord. 3980, approved an agreement with Cochran Engineering for STP grant application services for the North and South Rd. sidewalk project;
Ord. 3981, will allow motor vehicle sales, parts painting, body work and maintenance in C-3 zoning.
The council did go into closed session for one matter of litigation with no action being taken.