West Jefferson council started the new year quietly with its annual reorganization meeting on Jan. 2.
Prior to the meeting, Madison County Municipal Court Judge R. David Picken swore in newly elected mayor Scott Hockenbery, who, in turn, swore in re-elected councilman Doug Eakins. Former Mayor Tom Phillips had already sworn in newly elected councilman Jim King.
Council made one nomination each for the council offices. Darlene Steele retained her seat as president, and Councilman Ron Garver was elected as vice president.
Council approved the only business item on the agenda, a resolution to accept the property values, tax rates and estimated tax revenue for calendar year 2008.
For West Jefferson, the Madison County Budget Commission estimates a tax valuation of $49.9 million for residential and agricultural property, $21.1 million for commercial and industrial property, and $8.3 million in personal property for a total estimated tax valuation of $79.3 million.
Finance Officer Jack Herrel told council that the estimated property valuation is anticipated to generate about $73,145 in tax revenue for West Jefferson based on the tax rate of 1 mill.
West Jefferson council will meet again in regular session at 7 p.m. Jan. 21 at the municipal building.
