By Howard Packowitz

BLOOMINGTON – Bloomington aldermen are not ready to raise motor fuel taxes to fund much-needed street repairs, nor are they eager to boost utility taxes or impose a fee on video gambling machines to replace the aging O’Neil Park swimming pool.

Monday evening’s special session came as elected leaders weigh spending priorities while grappling with a $2.9 million dollar budget deficit.

“I need money for streets,” said Public Works Director Jim Karch, who proposed a four cent per gallon increase in fuel tax that would raise an additional $2.3 million for road repairs.

Councilman Jamie Mathy said he supports a higher gas tax, but Alderman Scott Black said it’s a non-starter for him.

“That motor fuel tax is pretty much dead on arrival for me,” said Black.

“How would you fund it otherwise? I would be interested in exploring a vehicle sticker program,” Black also said.

Alderman David Sage says he would consider a gas tax increase only if its accompanied by reduced spending.

“We are in a declining revenue condition here in the city. We’re experiencing some profound changes with the larger business community here,” Sage said.

“We have to start to come to grips with the fact that we have to start to cut expenses somewhere,” Sage added.

Alderman Joni Painter might consider a smaller gas tax hike. She fears a four-cent increase would send motorists to Normal to buy their gas, although Mayor Tari Renner said there’s no data predicting that.

Aldermen directed city staffers to come up with plans for indoor-outdoor swimming to replace the 44-year old O’Neil Pool rather than build an outdoor aquatic center. Year-round swimming might generate more revenue.

Howard Packowitz can be reached at [email protected]