Port 2 OK's 2023 budget

Commissioners of Port District 2 on Tuesday approved their 2023 budget and waived their authority to increase the district's property tax levy.

All three commissioners voted to keep the levy at the current level; in their October meeting, Commissioner Allen Bennett had spoken in favor of taking the 1 percent increase. Commissioners Brian O'Connor and Austin Burkhalter had opposed it, saying the increase wasn't necessary.

On Tuesday, Bennett agreed.

"The revenue we'd get from this levy would be minimal, and we have other avenues to raise funds," he said.

The 2023 draft budget totals $1.05 million with $411,938 estimated operating revenue, $155,800 in interest and investment income, and $485,000 in beginning cash and investments.

Estimated payroll expenses are $331,300, other operating costs $196,500, capital costs $454,877 and debt service costs $70,000.

Potential capital improvement costs include $80,000 for an additional rental cabin at Skamokwa Vista Park.