Northampton council adopts 2026 budget with 2.5‑mill increase; mayor backs plan after review
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Summary
Council granted final approval to the borough’s 2026 budget, which includes a 2.5‑mill tax increase; Mayor Tony Pristack said the rise was necessary to preserve public safety and services amid rising costs, and council recorded a voice vote approving the measure.
The Borough of Northampton’s council voted to grant final approval to the 2026 budget after a brief presentation and public discussion. Mayor Tony Pristack, who said he had considered vetoing a larger increase, defended the 2.5‑mill rise as needed to maintain public safety, vehicle maintenance and personnel costs.
"Not to have the increase in this budget would mean that the borough itself would be losing ground with where we are now," Mayor Pristack said, arguing that rising fuel, electricity and insurance costs required the adjustment. He said he reviewed the budget with the borough manager and concluded the increase was preferable to cutting core services.
Council moved for final approval (motion by Trevor Stone, second by Ron Glassick) and conducted a voice vote. The chair announced the motion carried with the ayes prevailing; the transcript does not include a roll‑call tally. Council members also approved a six‑year reappointment to the Civil Service Commission (Jeffrey Brandt) and a routine motion to pay bills during the same meeting.
Council and staff said residents can review rates and billing details on the borough website and that bills for the new rates will be mailed the week of Jan. 5. Council noted the first meeting in January (Jan. 5) will be the reorganizational meeting and may include further agenda items connected to the new budget.
