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By SHEILA MULLANE ESTRADAProperty tax revenue makes up the bulk of the spending plan, which is smaller than burial of utility lines alone.
NORTH REDINGTON BEACH - One major expenditure does not appear in North Redington Beach's budget for 2005-2006.
That's because the $936,000 spent this year marks the completion this summer of townwide burial of power and utility lines along interior streets.
Next year's capital expenditures are a much more modest $116,620 - which includes a $50,000 grant for improvements at Radcliffe Park.
Other projects include further development of the town's comprehensive plan, improvements to the Bath Club concourse, improvements to medians and crosswalks, repairs to the public works building and a new lawn mower.
Nearly half of the $742,795 operating budget is for public safety - $191,774 for the town's contract with the Pinellas County Sheriff's Office, $115,338 for fire service provided by Madeira Beach and Seminole, and $7,200 for emergency and disaster response.
The remainder of the operating budget covers salaries, benefits, and office and other expenses for general government services ($249,007); $52,627 for public works; $84,100 for street lighting, parks and other physical environment costs; and $42,309 for such "culture and recreation" items as sea turtle education, holiday activities and a town picnic.
The salaries of the town clerk and public works director were increased 5 percent, while the deputy clerk was given a 7.25 percent raise. Sewer fees for residents held steady, but commissioners indicated they may be increased in the 2006-7 budget.
Property tax revenue ($594,184) accounts for most of next year's spending plan. The commission left the property tax rate (1 mill) unchanged. The town has the second lowest millage rate in the county.
Commissioners said it would not be "fiscally prudent" to lower the millage, even though increases in property values are expected to add $80,100, or 24.1 percent, next year to property tax revenue. The Town Commission is scheduled to give its final approval of the millage rate and budget Thursday.