Rauner budget plan would trim Flossmoor revenues by $468,000

It might look like a tax hike, but it would be more of a tax bounce if Homewood trustees approve a measure Tuesday to raise the village’s amusement tax from 2 to 5 percent.

The tax originally was 5 percent when it was implemented in January 2014, but Brunswick Zone XL, the bowling center formerly operating at 3043 183rd St., appealed last summer for relief  from the tax, and the Board of Trustees agreed in September to lower it to 2 percent. 
 

Brunswick Zone was sold to AMF later in the year, and on Jan. 6 the center was abruptly closed, ostensibly for renovation. AMF officials later confirmed the business would not reopen. 

Brunswick Zone’s departure removes the reason the tax was reduced. The purpose of the tax is to help diversify village revenues, according to Finance Director Dennis Bubenik.

In other business, trustees will consider three measures related to local businesses:

• A special use permit for a business expansion by A2Z Nails, which plans to add a foot massage service at 18120 Dixie Highway, adjacent to its current operation.
• An extension of a redevelopment agreement with INX International Ink Company, which plans to expand and improve facilities on Maple Road in the Prairie Lakes Business Center.
• Downtown Homewood Business Incentive Program benefits not to exceed $6,000 for Paintertaining to help complete facade improvements at 2049 Ridge Road.

The board will also consider a proposal to reorganize village offices to redistribute functions of the community development department. Building Department functions would move to the Fire Department. Fire Chief Bob Grabowski has been serving as acting community development director since Paula Wallrich retired last year. Economic and community development functions would be located in the village manager’s office.

The meeting will start at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 24, in the board room of Village Hall, 2020 Chestnut Road.