C. Falls not asking voters to OK public-safety levy

The city of Columbia Falls has decided for now against asking voters to approve a public safety levy.

The City Council began exploring the idea after a few residents addressed the council about an increasing number of home and vehicle break-ins around town.

However, after hearing advice from city staffers and Police Chief Dave Perry, the council on Monday chose not to pursue the matter farther.

In the past, Perry has said the city would need two additional police officers after dispatching duties consolidated to the countywide 911 Center. That took effect last week.

“I think it’s a little bit premature to do it right now,” Perry said.

In a memo to the City Council, Perry said the department will take the next year to identify the actual need for more officers.

“In this economic time, I would like to exhaust all other options before taking on a task of asking the public for more money,” he wrote.

Finance Director Susan Nicosia estimates that hiring two new full-time police officers would cost about $150,000 in salary and operating costs annually. In addition, to fund the purchase of patrol cars, the department would require $8,000 annually.

A mill levy, if approved by voters, would result in an $75 increase in taxes on homes valued at $100,000. Those valued at $200,000 would see an increase of $150.

City Manager Bill Shaw agreed with Perry’s assessment of the situation.

“Yes, there will come a day when we need these policeman, but that isn’t now,” he said.

The public safety levy issue appeared on the City Council agenda. The item, however, died for a lack of motion after council members chose not to take action.