City of St. Marks had a busy night recently, holding both the regular monthly commission meeting and the first public hearing on the budget on Sept. 13 at City Hall.

City Manager Katherine Gatewood presented the amended budget with the rolled back millage rate to 4.5%, which was later approved. The millage rate was previously 5.24%, and the rolled back rate was 5.0671%.

The roll back rate has not been this low since the 2009-10 fiscal year. This roll back is mainly due to the boat ramp being self-sufficient, not being supported by the general fund.

“I am proud of myself,” Gatewood said. “There is an 11.19% rollback rate and no increase to property taxes.”

The reduced millage rate results from shifting the operational costs of the boat ramp from the property owners of St. Marks to the visitors who use it. The boat ramp remains free for verified property owners in the St. Marks city limits. Residents are asked to contact City Hall for their annual sticker by calling (850) 925-6224.

At the regular commission meeting, the on-going Wakulla Street discussion resulted in St. Marks considering an ordinance that would require property owners along the Wakulla Street right-of-way to pay a license fee to use docks that sit on public land.

Former City Attorney Chuck McMurry discussed historical information regarding the city, and the property in the right of way. McMurry suggested a representative from the city work with homeowners before any decisions are finalized.

St. Marks City Attorney William Garner mentioned that the ordinance is intended to preserve the riverfront and would only affect properties along the Wakulla Street right-of-way.

Also under the proposed ordinance, a $3,000 one-time application and annual license fee will be implemented, along with other costs.