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5 Things in Easton That Could Cost More in 2013

City Council could raise several fees in Easton's new budget.

 

As Easton City Council has reviewed its 2013 budget, a lot of the focus has been on the city's proposed changes for its parking meters, which include raising the rates to $1 per hour.

But Easton could also increase some other fees next year. Here are five things it could cost more to do in 2013, according to the updated city code released at Tuesday night's council meeting:

  1. Be a licensed plumber. The fee for a master plumber's license would go from $75 to $100, and from $50 to $75 for a journeyman plumber.
  2. Run a tattoo parlor. Anyone who opens a new tattoo parlor would have to pay $500 for an initial application, inspection and license fee, which is double the current amount. Existing tattoo parlors would see their yearly inspection and license fee go from $200 to $300.
  3. Run a restaurant. According to the city, the cost for a food establishment permit will go up $25. Currently, a place with less than 5,000 square feet pays $200, somewhere with more than 5,000 square feet pays $300. New establishments will see their initial application fee go from $100 to $150. 
  4. Have your rental properties inspected. Budget figures show the city's inspection fees -- which vary depending on the time of year and number of rental units -- going up $10.
  5. Get a variance from the zoning hearing board. It used to cost $50 but will be $200 under the proposed budget.

City Council meets again at 6 tonight on the sixth floor of City Hall.

Related Topics: Easton Budget and Fees

Ronnie DelBacco

9:55 am on Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Why isn't Parking downtown on the list?
These increases further exemplify the need for fiscal control at One South 3rd St. Less spending, not more revenue.

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Andy Novick

11:23 am on Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Hey Ronnie, get a bicycle...no gas,parking is free, and hundreds of spots to lock up your bike....

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Tom Coombe

9:58 am on Wednesday, November 28, 2012

I mentioned the parking increase in the first sentence of the story.

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Ronnie DelBacco

12:32 pm on Wednesday, November 28, 2012

I saw the mention, I was curious as to why it wasn't part of the numbered list. The first sentence gets lost once you read about all the other fees numbered 1 thru 5.

Ronnie DelBacco

12:35 pm on Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Andy,
I couldn't take my family and I wouldn't be able to carry home any items I purchase. Then there's always the visibility and safety issues with riding at night. But for those who can, riding a bicycle might be a good idea.

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Bob Wesley

3:26 pm on Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Let's not forget the commuter tax which means non residents working in easton pay a higher tax then residents do. We both pay 1.75% but we get hit with the $1.00 a week right to work tax as well. Isn't politics terrific If we can't pay our bills lets rob the piggy back next door. Especially since the robbery victims can't vote the BUMS yes I said BUMS out. It's great to know that this years pay raise(the first in 4 years) here will get gobbled up by the city. Try growing a set and handle your contract negotiations with revenue in mind.

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