Assembly members approve balanced budget including aquatic center funding

The Petersburg Borough Assembly convened on June 3, 2025, to discuss the fiscal year budget, focusing on the property development fund and various financial allocations. The meeting highlighted the borough's financial status and the implications of proposed budget amendments.

Assembly member Lynn raised questions about the property development fund, which currently holds $734,000. The discussion revealed that significant allocations are planned for upcoming projects, including $651,000 for the aquatic center sewer project and $70,000 for the Banana Point Breakwater Project. The assembly debated whether to add an additional $6,000 to the budget, which ultimately failed with a 4-3 vote.

A key point of discussion was the borough's financial management, particularly regarding the motor pool fund, which has expenditures exceeding revenues. Finance Director Jody Tao explained that this is typical for internal service funds, as they are designed to accumulate reserves for future vehicle purchases. The assembly also discussed the importance of balancing revenues and expenditures across various funds, including the economic development fund, which currently has $4.6 million in reserves.

The assembly members expressed appreciation for the efforts of the finance department in creating a balanced budget, acknowledging the challenges faced by departments in adjusting their requests. Member Steenbrenner emphasized the importance of maintaining fiscal responsibility while ensuring that essential services are funded.

As the assembly moves forward, the discussions from this meeting underscore the ongoing challenges of budget management in Petersburg Borough, particularly in balancing immediate needs with long-term financial sustainability. The assembly's decisions will shape the borough's financial landscape in the coming year, with implications for community projects and services.