The Mt. Carmel City Council is scheduled to give first reading to its annual tax levy ordinance tonight (Monday) during the board's regular meeting.

The council meets at 5 p.m. at Mt. Carmel City Hall.

The city continues to look for ways to hold expenses down for the sake of taxpayers, said Jack Emmons, commissioner over finances, at the council's last meeting two weeks ago. It's been hard to stay within budget, he cautioned, given the higher costs for necessities, like fuel, that the municipality has met this fiscal year.

Emmons, who also oversees the local senior citizens center, said the center has cut hours in order to reduce expenses. Other department are "looking for places to possibly squeeze down," as well, he said.

Last year, the council increased the tax levy by 14 percent, from $762,263 to $868,096. The city had not passed a similar increase in the tax levy since 1999.

Routine reports from commissioners and various city personnel are also expected during tonight's regular meeting.