By Sarah Hayden, shayden@qconline.com

PORT BYRON -- Trustees approved a tentative tax levy Monday night of less than 1 percent for fiscal year 2013-14, setting estimated taxes at $258,500, down $376 from 2012.

Despite the slight raise, taxes are expected to go down because of lower equalized assessed value. Port Byron's estimated EAV for 2013-14 is $28,475,254, .7 percent less than the previous year.

To offset the lower taxes, garbage collection fees and liability insurance have been raised less than 1 percent each.

Also on Monday, Port Byron Trustee Todd Wiebenga announced new cemetery regulations for Oak Hill Cemetery. Starting Jan. 1, burials will require a signed contract and payment to the city after a death and before burial.

The plot purchase is treated as a real estate transaction, with a deed signed at Village Hall, payment of grave site preparation and the purchase of a headstone, said Mr. Wiebenga.

The board also announced:

-- Applications are being accepted for a part-time snow plow driver by Public Works Director Don Loy.

-- A Christmas lights contest is planned in Port Byron with judging on Dec. 22. Five winners will receive gift certificates to local restaurants; 10 honorable mention winners will receive certificates. The contest is sponsored by Mid American Energy and winners will be notified by mail.