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Trenton reviews draft 2026 budget; council approves election interlocal agreement and a commercial mower
Summary
At a budget workshop, town staff presented a draft fiscal 2026 budget that factors in substantial grant funding; the council voted to sign an interlocal agreement for municipal elections (estimated cost $1,488) and approved purchase of a John Deere industrial mower for parks and cemetery maintenance.
Town finance staff presented a draft budget to the Trenton Town Council at a budget workshop held during the council meeting, outlining projected revenues and expenses for the fiscal year that begins July 1.
“You’re required to pass a new budget by June 20,” the finance presenter said, listing major revenue streams: property tax, sales tax, a municipal energy tax, and state gasoline-based class B/C road funds. The draft anticipates significant grant revenues, including an allocation from COG for road work; the presenter said the town expected between $250,000 and $300,000 from COG for a major road project.
The draft contrasts the current-year adopted budget ($420,500) with a proposed FY2026 budget (approximately $665,500), driven largely by anticipated grant awards for roads and parks. The presenter said cemetery work would be supported by a $75,000 CDBG line item tied to the Trenton Cemetery Road project discussed in the public hearing.
Votes at a glance
- Interlocal agreement for municipal elections: The council heard from staff that the county estimated the town’s share of election costs at about $1,488. The council then voted to accept the interlocal agreement authorizing the county to administer the municipal election and to bill the town for the cost. Motion to accept the interlocal agreement was made and seconded; the transcript records the motion as approved (all in favor).
- Purchase of lawn mower for parks and cemetery: Parks staff presented options for a replacement mower. After discussing warranties and parts availability, council members moved, seconded and approved purchasing a John Deere industrial (commercial) mower; the transcript records the motion as approved with an affirmative vote.
The presenter walked the council through expense categories: administration, contracts for police (county contract), fire department support, roads, recreation and parks, cemetery operations and special items such as the CDBG-funded cemetery project. She said the town’s largest anticipated revenue sources for FY2026 are COG road funds and grants.
Council members were advised they may amend the draft before the final budget hearing required by law. The town will hold a budget hearing next month to allow further public comment and formal adoption before the state deadline.
