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Highlands introduces 2026 budget as health-benefit costs and payroll increases push appropriations higher
Summary
Finance staff introduced the 2026 municipal budget showing a projected 1.7-cent tax decrease (subject to appeals), an 8.7% valuation increase, and a $855,000 increase in appropriations driven largely by a 36.5% rise in health-benefit costs; capital funding and potential cuts were also discussed.
Borough finance staff presented the 2026 municipal budget during the April 15 Highlands Mayor and Council meeting, citing rapid increases in employee health-insurance costs and contractual payroll changes as the primary drivers of higher appropriations.
Mike, the finance officer, told council members the borough is projecting a 1.7-cent tax decrease based on current assessed values but emphasized that outcome could change if tax appeals are…
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