The Sunbury City Council convened on October 7, 2025, to discuss the preliminary budget proposal for the Eastern Delaware County Joint Recreation District for the upcoming year. The meeting began with a review of the current budget status, noting total expenditures for 2025 were just under $19,900, remaining within the allocated budget of $46,000.

The council then shifted focus to the proposed budget for 2026, which is still in a preliminary stage. Key components of the budget include maintaining insurance costs at the same level as the previous year, a reduction in basic legal services from $10,000 to $8,000, and provisions for potential election proceedings. The budget also anticipates expenses for consulting services related to conceptual architectural plans and preliminary construction estimates, should the district proceed to a ballot next year.

Discussion among council members highlighted the importance of accurately estimating costs, particularly regarding community engagement and potential legal fees. Maria raised concerns about whether the budget adequately covered expenses for focus group meetings necessary for moving forward with the ballot initiative. The council acknowledged the need for a contingency line to address unforeseen costs, with suggestions to include a miscellaneous category or increase the consulting services budget by $5,000 to $10,000.

The council members expressed a preference for transparency in budgeting, emphasizing the importance of communicating any adjustments to the contributing political jurisdictions—Sunbury, Berkshire, and Galena. The proposed contributions from these jurisdictions were discussed, with amounts deemed consistent with prior expectations.

As the meeting progressed, the council agreed on the necessity of a more defined budget structure, suggesting that any additional funds should be explicitly requested rather than categorized as miscellaneous. This approach aims to ensure clarity and accountability as the jurisdictions finalize their budgets.

In conclusion, the meeting underscored the collaborative effort required to finalize the 2026 budget, with members committed to refining the proposal and ensuring it meets the needs of the community while remaining fiscally responsible. Further discussions and adjustments are anticipated as the council prepares for the upcoming year.