An increase in building-permit fees approved by the Town Council Monday will go into effect on May 14.

The council, which considered the increase to help fund needed improvements to sidewalks, drainage and other infrastructure in the Town Center, agreed that the new fees should be charged beginning May 14, rather than the July 2 date originally proposed.

"I don't see a need to have a rush in the planning office to avoid the fee," said Town Councilor Mary Ann Lynch.

Lynch initially proposed that the increase begin today, but Town Manager Michael McGovern suggested the town wait a week to allow for notification.

Following a public hearing Monday, the council voted unanimously to increase building-permit fees from .7 percent of the value of the improvement to 1 percent, with the increased revenue to be placed in an infrastructure improvement fund.

Fees for building permits beginning May 14 will be:

• Minimum fee for projects up to $2,500 in value - $25.

• Projects above $2,500 value - 1 percent of the total estimated value of the building.

• Late fee -- Double the full fee.

All of the minimum $25 fees will go to the general fund. Seventy percent of the income from building permits above $2,500 in estimated value will also go to the general fund, and 30 percent will go to the new Town Infrastructure Improvement Fund.

Previous stories:

• Increase in building-permit fees proposed to help fund Town Center improvements (01/10/07)