A mill of tax is equal to $1 for every $1,000 of assessed value of the property.

The proposed budget also is based on total assessed property values at least $377,563 lower than last year’s total following numerous successful tax assessment appeals in the borough.

The reduction in at least 14 properties’ assessed values will mean the loss of at least $7,326 in real estate tax revenue.

The borough also levies a .44-mill tax dedicated to the volunteer fire department; a 1.3-mill tax dedicated to Clarion Free Library; and a 1.61-mill tax dedicated to recreation. Those taxes are slated to remain at those levels.

Over all, the borough anticipates $622,930 in real estate tax revenue and $275,500 in earned income tax payments. The budget also anticipates $105,000 from the local services tax and $33,000 in realty transfer tax revenues.

Licenses and permit fees are expected to generate another $110,005.

Total revenues for 2009 are projected to be $1,786, 305.

Council members also discussed a ban on any type of tobacco use on borough property.

However, questions concerning just where borough property limits would apply stalled the discussion.

A complete ban on tobacco use on borough property would apply to areas outside the public library, at the Toby Boat Launch and at Paul A. Weaver Park .

Council members asked borough manager to research the issue further and report to council at tonight’s meeting.

Budget discussion came during a Nov. 24 work session where council could take no formal action.

During a special meeting conducted immediately before the work session, council approved the sale of two parcels of borough-owned property in Clarion Township near the sewage treatment plant.

The borough had planned on turning the land over to the Clarion Area Authority as it neared the closing of its sale to Pennsylvania-American Water.

When PAW officials said they have no interest in the property, council opted to sell the land to Michael A. Palo for $41,456.