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Council hears 16% revenue rise driven by electric rates; approves April 1 check warrant
Summary
Councilman Harvard told Lansdale Borough Council that year-to-date revenues rose 16%—largely from the electric department—creating a temporary $1.1–$1.2 million deficit the administration expects to close as tax revenue arrives; council then approved the April 1 check warrant by voice vote.
Councilman Harvard reported to the borough council that year-to-date revenues are up about 16% while expenditures are up roughly 3.5%, producing an approximate $1.1–$1.2 million deficit that he said the borough expects to eliminate as tax revenues arrive in April, May and again in the fall.
"Most of that revenue is coming in through the electric department," Councilman Harvard said, adding that about $714,000 of the gain is attributable to higher electric rates passed on to customers. He cautioned that rising wholesale electricity costs could change the projection.
Council members asked whether the increase reflected tax receipts or other sources; Harvard reiterated the electric department as the primary driver and said the committee will continue to monitor the numbers. He also said the borough’s bonding agent has asked whether the borough remains interested in issuing bonds and that the committee will consult counsel and the agent before any decision.
Later in the meeting, Councilman Harvard moved that the borough council approve the check warrant for April 1, 2026, "as per the attachment." A second was made and the motion was approved by voice vote.
The council did not record a roll-call tally for the check warrant in the minutes; the meeting record shows the motion was approved by the presiding officer after affirmative responses. No additional action on bonding was taken; members said they expect further committee discussion on whether to seek new bonding counsel or proceed with prior arrangements.
Next steps: staff will circulate more detailed electric-cost projections when New York Power Authority price changes are finalized and the finance committee will continue to evaluate bonding options.
