Cheektowaga's preliminary 2026 budget shows modest levy rise; board tables adoption after heated public hearing

A town finance official presented the Town of Cheektowaga's preliminary 2026 budget at a Nov. 6 public hearing, saying planned appropriations total about $113,594,076 and that the proposed tax levy would rise by $1,898,206 (about 2.58%). The presentation described $23.8 million in other budgeted revenues and a planned use of fund balance in the mid-millions to balance spending.

The presentation, which noted major costs for public safety (police and code enforcement) and highway/lighting, said union wage increases were budgeted at 3.25% and highlighted new or growing revenues including adult-use cannabis tax receipts and a potential hotel/bed tax that the board is considering enacting locally. The presenter emphasized large line items for fringe benefits and medical costs, and described $500,000-plus…