Pekin passes several tax hikes and fee increases to fill deep budget holes [Video]

PEKIN (25News Now) – Facing a $12 million deficit, the Pekin City Council Monday night passed several measures to raise taxes and fees.

This coming fiscal year, Pekin is required to include two major upgrades, including an Americans with Disabilities Act transition plan to comply with a consent decree and a combined sewer overflow project. With insufficient money to cover those costs, the city is increasing existing taxes, establishing new taxes, and cutting spending.

“I am, as many of you should be, upset with past administration bringing us to this point,” said Pekin’s Mayor Mary Burress.

“I can attest to you, not a soul up here is happy, but I believe we’ve acted responsibly by replacing the interim city manager/finance director who is accountable for creating the largest part of our current deficit,” added Councilmember Karen Hohimer.

The council unanimously agreed to the ADA transition plan after a lawsuit in …