Commissioner of Finance outlines 2026 comprehensive budget, proposes 2% property tax increase and hiring freeze

The Commissioner of Finance presented the proposed 2026 comprehensive budget to the Saratoga Springs City Council, saying, “I am here to present the 2026 comprehensive budget.” The draft sets total spending at about $61,370,000 and includes a recommended 2% property tax increase to balance revenues and expenses.

The commissioner said the budget-building period will include two public hearings (the next October meeting and the November meeting) and several workshops, and noted the city charter requires adoption on or before Nov. 30. The presentation framed the gap between rising costs and comparatively slow revenue growth as driven largely by five categories: salaries, health insurance, retirement, liability insurance and capital expenses.

Why it matters: The budget contains near-term choices that affect operations and services for residents, including a proposed hiring freeze, reductions in part-time staff, and possible cuts to non-profit funding. The presentation also listed several options that would add revenue without directly raising residents' taxes, including expanded paid parking, removing…