Burns Harbor votes to reestablish CCD rate at 5 cents; council cites up to $60,000 potential revenue

The Burns Harbor Town Council voted April 8 to reestablish the cumulative capital development (CCD) fund and raise the rate from 4¢ to the statutory 5¢ maximum.

Clerk/Treasurer explained that reestablishing the CCD requires publication of notice and a 30‑day petition window; because of statutory deadlines staff asked the council to consider suspending rules so adoption could occur the same night. The clerk read the statutory language required for notice and stated that, depending on assessed value, the 1¢ increase could generate about $60,000 in CCD revenue next year.

During the public‑hearing portion, one member of the public expressed support for the change while another spoke in opposition; neither speaker was identified in the meeting record. On motion, the council adopted Ordinance 328‑2026 on first reading, voted to suspend the rules by unanimous roll call and adopted the ordinance on second reading that evening.

Council members noted the CCD is typically used for capital purchases such as vehicles and bunker gear for the fire department and emphasized the need to meet the Department of Local Government Finance (DLGF) filing deadline on or before June 1 to secure the reestablishment for the coming tax year.

The motion to suspend the rules and adopt on second reading passed by unanimous roll call. Staff will publish the required notice of adoption and submit documentation to the DLGF as required by statute.