Carthage, IL – The Hancock County has approved an appropriations ordinance that's down slightly from last year.
County Clerk Kerry Asbridge says the projected spending of $3.012 million is basically the same as spending seventeen years ago, except for programs approved by voter referenda.
These include the health department, mental health programs, the 4-H program and ambulance service support.
The board also approved a levy ordinance of $3.063 million, which is a 2.7 percent increase over the current fiscal year.
Bb>Asbridge says the county's income is hurt by the shrinking number of retail stores that generate sales tax. He says increases in sales tax receipts vary between minimal and non-existent.
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He says the number of auto dealerships in the county has gone from nine to two over the past few years. The number of grocery stores in the county is down to six.
The tax levy increase will be for the 2007 tax bill which will be paid next summer.