Lacey adopts 2026 budget with 7.66% tax increase; dozens of contracts and ordinances approved

The Township of Lacey adopted its 2026 municipal budget on May 14, 2026, approving Resolution #2026-148 after public questions about tax impacts and health-insurance costs.

CFO Linda Covello told residents the budget includes a 7.66% tax increase and that employee health insurance costs are approximately $2 million. The governing body proceeded to adopt the budget on a unanimous roll-call vote (Mr. Curatolo, Mrs. Juliano, Mr. Laureigh, Mr. McDonald, and Mayor Kennis all voted yes).

The meeting also included the second-reading adoption of two ordinances. Ordinance #2026-10, amending Chapter 261 (Parks), and Ordinance #2026-11, amending salary and compensation provisions, were both adopted on second reading with unanimous roll-call votes.

Council members approved a large set of procurement resolutions covering security cameras, walkway lighting, EMS and police equipment, vehicle purchases, body-worn camera upgrades, portable radios, computer equipment and other municipal items. Each contract award passed on motions and seconds with recorded approvals.

Administrative actions approved included appointment of a temporary Acting Municipal Clerk (Veronica Laureigh), authorization of seasonal Department of Public Works hires, authorization of leave under the Family Medical Leave Act for Lisa Monbleau, cancellation of a tax-title lien due to bankruptcy, and refunds of facility deposits. A resolution urging state leaders to address rising public-sector health benefit premiums was also adopted.

The meeting record shows two abstentions noted during the vote on the payment of township bills: Mr. Curatolo abstained on R-5890 and Mr. McDonald abstained on T-0035; otherwise votes on listed items were recorded as approved.

The governing body closed with a motion to convene an executive session and adjourned the caucus meeting at 7:14 p.m.