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Trustees debate Morgan County animal-control contract and claims of double taxation
Summary
Village leaders discussed complaints about Morgan County animal control's responsiveness and whether residents are being "double taxed" (Village fee plus County property tax). Trustees asked for clarification of statutory obligations and reporting requirements before pursuing any change.
Trustees spent part of the Nov. 6 meeting reviewing concerns over Morgan County's animal-control service and whether South Jacksonville residents pay twice for the same service. President Richard Samples said the village pays a fee to Morgan County while residents also pay county property taxes, calling it "double taxation" and asking why the county cut its animal-control budget. Treasurer Mindy Olson said neighboring municipalities reported concerns about response times and some are contemplating leaving the county contract.
Trustee Christina Butler pushed back on the double-taxation assertion, saying her preliminary review of the law suggests county collection is governed by state statute and she did not agree with the double-taxation characterization. Trustee J.W. Coleman said he reviewed Morgan County's animal-control ordinance and alleged the county is not complying with its own reporting requirements. President Samples and Trustee Coleman asked staff to gather a clearer legal opinion and more details about service levels and costs before the board considers a change.
No formal action was taken during the Nov. 6 meeting; the discussion led to requests for a legal clarification and additional information from neighboring municipalities and county officials.
