Brookhaven council adopts 2026 proposed budget, moves to advertise pay ordinance despite public objections

Brookhaven Borough Council adopted its 2026 proposed budget on Nov. 10 and authorized public notice of proposed property, sewer and trash fees. Councilors voted by voice to adopt the budget and then approved motions to advertise the budget and related tax and fee changes for public inspection.

The meeting featured extensive public comment objecting to the timing of a separate action: a motion to advertise an ordinance fixing annual compensation for the mayor, council president and council members. Tom Dykes, president of the borough recreation board, told the council it was ‘‘strange’’ the compensation change was advanced after the election and urged the council to table it. A second resident said, ‘‘Please put this aside’’ until newly elected officials have served a term and earned voter trust.

Council members said the figures originated with the state and must be implemented in the manner prescribed by Harrisburg. During discussion a council speaker cited the amounts noted at the meeting: $8,385 annually for the mayor and $41.90 for council members, and emphasized the borough cannot unilaterally increase pay beyond state law. The council proceeded to vote to advertise the compensation ordinance; a roll call produced a majority and the motion carried.

What the council approved on Nov. 10 was the budget and the administrative step to advertise an ordinance; advertising is not the same as final passage, and the meeting record shows the compensation action was an authorization to publish and start the required local process rather than an immediate pay change. Residents asked for more transparency and consultation with committees before moving the compensation item forward.

The council also approved the November bill list and several routine procurement motions before moving on to other agenda items. The meeting closed after a Veterans Day recognition and adjournment.