No rate hikes

EPHRATA — The City Council adopted a $9.2 million 2007 budget last week, highlighted by a 4.6 percent increase in revenues fueled by Ephrata's improving economy.

Those economic conditions translate into more income from city utilities, which comprise 37 percent of total revenues. The economy also means increased property and sales tax revenues, which climb 4.8 percent and 6.8 percent, respectively. Property and sales tax make up a combined 22 percent of the city's total revenues.

There are no rate hikes, Ephrata Mayor Chris Jacobson stated in his budget message.

It's the second consecutive year revenues crept upward, 2.9 percent in 2006. This year's budget is 29 percent lower than the $13.8 million of 2002, Jacobson said.

With revenues at lower levels than five years ago, the city proved able to maximize growth, according to mayor. The city has focused on preserving a minimum staff, eliminating ineffective spending and creatively using resources, Jacobson said.

The city's 2007 budget funds a new patrol officer for the Ephrata Police Department. The addition of a new officer creates flexibility in scheduling and reduces overtime costs, City Administrator Wes Crago said.

The budget also provides Police Chief Joe Varick's department with two new squad cars, though one is a replacement vehicle.