Council passes 2026 budget package and event/use permits; roll-call outcomes and key items

On Dec. 8 Council approved a packaged set of 2026 budgets and related resolutions following debate on public safety and staffing. Highlights and roll-call outcomes presented during the meeting include:

- General fund budget (Bill 47-2025): Passed 5–2. Roll call: Miss Kwiatak Aye; Miss Laird Aye; Miss Leon Aye; Miss Wilhelm Aye; Mister Callahan Nay; Miss Kramsey Smith Nay; Mister Colon Aye.

- Waterfront, sewer, golf course, liquid fuels, non-utility capital, water capital, sewer capital, community development block grant, stormwater and millage rate ordinances (Bills 48–57 2025 as listed on the agenda): Each ordinance was moved and then adopted by roll call, with most passing by the same 5–2 split noted above where recorded.

- Resolutions and permits
• ArtsQuest Peeps Fest use permit (Resolution 10a): Passed unanimously (7–0).
• Touchstone Theater Parham Park use permit (Resolution 10b): Passed unanimously (7–0).
• Amendment with KL Fulford Associates to operate East Allen Township well systems (Resolution 10c): Passed unanimously (7–0).
• Certificate of appropriateness for 38–44 East Market Street elevator/tower addition: Passed unanimously (7–0).

Council members who voted no on multiple budget items said they oppose the package because it did not specifically fund additional firefighter positions that they argued could be covered by a relatively small amount ($331,000) and said they would consider revenue options next year. Proponents of the budgets said the administration is pursuing hiring and RFP processes to address staffing and that ongoing reports will come to council.

What’s next: The administration will implement appropriations for 2026 and proceed with contracts and design work authorized by the resolutions; council members requested follow-up reports on staffing, capital projects and technology procurements in early 2026.