Oak Creek City Property Tax Levy Holds Steady

For the fourth year in a row, Oak Creek will essentially keep its property tax levy status quo.

Only this time, it didn't have much choice. City officials said that as part of the state budget reforms passed earlier this year, municipalities are prohibited from raising the property tax levy except to account for new growth.

In its preliminary budget proposal, the city projects growth at .48 percent, which would generate about $86,000 in additional property taxes.

city leaders presented the Common Council with a balanced budget late last month. The proposal attempts to continue quality services while staying mindful of the burden already on taxpayers, Mayor Dick Bolender said.

Bolender said he was optimistic that redevelopment possibilities at the former Delphi site and lakefront would greatly help the city add to its property tax base and provide additional tax revenue in the future.

"In the meantime, it is important we handle the challenges before us in a positive, cooperative fashion," he said. "It is critical for the city of Oak Creek to maintain its record of fiscal stability."