PORTAGE (WKZO-AM) — The Portage City Council voted last night to increase a broad range of user fees.
The increases will affect city-created documents, recreational programs and permits for electrical, plumbing and construction.
Councilmember Nasim Ansari said the timing stinks.
“Just three months ago, we just said that we have a $3.2 million surplus,” Ansari said. “Soon after that news, here we come.”
Mayor Pete Strazdas said the surplus is “one-time money” and can’t be counted on beyond this year.
“This is a one-time blip from a few years of holding some resources back,” Strazdas said. “I’m in favor of this present model offered by the city manager.”
There were also questions about spending $45,000 to install WiFi at the Celery Flats Interpretive Center. However, that too was approved.
– John McNeill
