Northampton council votes to advertise proposed 2026 budget and 2.5‑mill tax increase

The Borough of Northampton council on Tuesday voted to advertise the proposed 2026 budget and to advertise a proposed 2.5‑mill borough property tax increase required for the preliminary budget.

A motion to advertise the proposed 2026 budget was made by Ronald Glassick and seconded by Judy Haldeman; the chair called for the question and the motion passed on a voice vote. Council then considered the legal requirement to advertise any proposed tax increase and voted to advertise a 2.5‑mill increase after a motion by Ronald Glassick and a second by Trevor Stone.

Staff presented the preliminary budget and explained the advertisement step is required to notify the public; the packet will be available in the borough office for inspection. Finance staff told the council the advertised budget reflects the 2.5‑mill increase the administration says is necessary to balance identified needs.

What happens next: the advertised budget and tax‑increase notice will be published as required and the public may review the budget in the borough office; formal adoption of the budget and tax rate will follow subsequent advertised hearings and votes.