Brownsburg council approves first reading of $83 million 2026 budget; public hearings to follow

The Brownsburg Town Council on Sept. 25 approved first reading of the town and fire territory 2026 budget, a $83,000,614.06 proposal that town staff said prioritizes infrastructure and public-safety staffing while reflecting higher operating costs. Debbie (Clerk-Treasurer) presented the budget and asked council to advance it for a second reading and public hearing at the next meeting.

Why it matters: The budget establishes the town's spending baseline for 2026 and identifies major capital investments staff said are needed to address traffic and facility needs. The plan will shape levy and rate decisions that affect taxpayers and service levels across town departments.

Town staff highlighted several points during the presentation. The town’s total budget submission is $83,000,614.06, a year-over-year increase staff described as resulting from inflation, growth and capital needs. The town has grown “by leaps and bounds” since 2020, staff said, and the general staffing level for civilian employees remains below 2018 levels even as demand has risen. The presentation lists interchange design and the North Green Street corridor design as among the largest capital items, with the interchange design priced at “over $2,000,000.”

Fire staffing and grants: Debbie told the council the Brownsburg Fire Territory has applied for a SAFER grant that, if funded, would pay for 15 firefighter positions; staff said a decision on that application was expected around Oct. 1 but that occasional delays can occur. The budget submission assumes the grant outcome is uncertain and lists contingency and capital-outlay items tied to the fire territory.

Enterprise funds and rates: Staff said the water fund request rose because the town is buying more treated water and the unit cost has increased; the town is engaged in a rate study to better align customer charges with costs. When a councilmember asked whether the town pays more for water than it receives in revenue, staff said the rate study will provide the per-thousand-gallon comparison and other detailed rate information.

Tax rate and levy notes: The presentation included a chart showing the town’s share of property tax collections has decreased in recent years to about 19 percent of the typical property tax bill, with the local school district receiving the largest share. Staff noted the deadline to file an adopted budget is Oct. 28 and that the town may pursue a three-year excess levy appeal where appropriate.

Procedure and next steps: Councilmember made the motion to approve the ordinance on first reading; another councilmember seconded and the motion carried by voice vote. The budget will return for a public hearing and second reading at the council’s next regular meeting; final adoption must occur before Oct. 28 to satisfy filing deadlines.