Aragon's millage rate will be set during the City Council's regular meeting at 7 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 18.

A public hearing on the proposed 2012 rate – gross 22.4 mils with a rollback of 10 to equal 12.4 mils – has been scheduled for 6:30 p.m. prior to the regular session.

This is the same rate set during the past year. The proposed net tax levied for 2012 will total $205,659 compared to $206,603 in 2011 or $208,183 in 2010, $211,294 in 2009, $207,083 in 2008 and $189,983 in 2007.

The gross digest for 2012 is $17,166,912 less M&O exemptions of $581,449 for a net of $16,585,463. This compares with a gross digest of $17,247,091 in 2011, less $585,498 (M&0) for a net of $16,661,593.

The proposed 2012 real and personal property totals $15,646,810 compared to $15,733,072 in 2011, $16,466,236 in 2010, $16,477,469 in 2009, $16,093,813 in 2008 and $14,987,759 in 2007.

These numbers were viewed during the group's September meeting.

Council members also heard a presentation by Fire Chief Frank Matthews, who outlined the need for keeping the current Class 6 Insurance Service Office (ISO) rating.

He reminded that homeowners now pay an annual premium of $800 for homeowners insurance. If Aragon had a Class 9 rate, the price would increase to $2,200.

“To meet ISO standards, we must meet a rated fire flow of 1,750 gallons per minute,” he said. “This number would drop to 1,250 gallons if we sell the ladder truck, which would put us out of compliance.”

Chief Matthews presented a proposal he said would solve the problem.

His recommendation to accept an offer from Brendlee Mountain, Union Grove, AL was approved.

In exchange for the 1998 E-1 ladder truck, Aragon would get a 1983 Pierce Class A Pumper with 1,250 gallons per minute capability and a cash payment of $75,000.

In addition, the offer includes a 2-year warranty and equipment allowance of $6,000.

“This is a win, win situation for the City of Aragon,” said Mayor Ken Suffridge.

Matthews, named Aragon's Safety Coordinator, reported that membership in the fire department continues to increase and plans are to obtain a first responder license. A class will be held in January.

In other business, the group:

Approved the first reading of an abandoned house ordinance and tabled one proposed for duck management.

Gave the green light for plumbing repairs in the City’s administrative offices and purchase of a new lawn mower.