Taxes and other costs are rising for Chapin residents.

At the September 4 town hall meeting, Chapin Town Council approved a 1.379 mill increase for a total of 12.884 mills on property taxes.

This will add $5.52 a year to taxes on a primary residence assessed at $100,000.

They also approved an increase in Mid-Carolina Electric and SC Electric & Gas franchise fees from 3% to 5%.

That will result in a 2% higher electric bill for town residents using power from either utility.

Town officials plans to create a Community Engagement Council for assistance from community leaders and interested citizens.

“We know that big ideas can spring up from small conversations and that people invest in what they help create,” Mayor David Knight stated in a recent Mayor’s message.

The goal of the Engagement Council is to give the community an opportunity to provide input, express concerns and come up with solutions. The town wants to establish a culture of inclusiveness.

Citizens in and out of town limits would work with the Mayor and council.

The first meeting will be in partnership with the Central Carolina Community Foundation on Oct. 24 at town hall.