This is the first time Belvidere has exercised its home rule power. 

RRStar - The City Council approved a 2-cent-per-gallon tax on gasoline Monday - and a sales tax hike may be in the works - as the city grapples with rising costs for municipal services.

The tax hike passed 7-1 with two aldermen absent. The added revenue will go to the usual places; municipal services, infrastructure, and city pensions. City officials say that this will be easier on the residents of Belvidere than if they simply upped property taxes since this tax will be spread out to those who don't live in the city.

It will be interesting to see what kind of backlash this brings about. City officials will definitely be paying attention since a possible sales tax hike is also on the horizon for Belvidere residents.

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