Hampstead adopts FY2026 budget, keeps property tax rate unchanged and approves 8% water rate increase

The Hampstead Mayor and Council on Tuesday adopted the town's fiscal 2026 budget and the annual tax levy while approving an 8% increase in water rates.

The council approved Ordinance 556 (levy of taxes for FY2026) and Ordinance 557 (the FY2026 annual budget) by roll call votes after a public hearing. Council members Barrett, Painter, Thomas, Anglesby and Zollner each voted in favor during roll calls recorded for the budget ordinances. The council also approved Resolution 2025-02, which raises water rates by 8%, and adopted Resolution 2025-03 to establish a revised rental housing license fee.

Mayor (Town of Hampstead) opened the public hearing by saying, "it being June and we have to adopt the budget tonight," and outlined the council's long-term planning approach, including a focus on capital improvements and resilience.

Why this matters: The budget funds ongoing capital projects — most significantly the town's PFAS water treatment and centralization program — and covers operating costs that include a modest across-the-board 2% salary increase for employees,…