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Knowlton adopts 2026 budget with 2¢ tax-rate increase amid senior-program cuts
Summary
Knowlton Township adopted its 2026 municipal budget, increasing the municipal tax rate by two cents (about $42 annually on a $205,000 home) and using roughly $90,000 more in fund balance; residents from the senior organization objected to a $1,000 reduction in senior-program funding.
Knowlton Township’s Committee adopted the 2026 municipal budget during its June 8 meeting, approving a two‑cent increase in the municipal tax rate that Auditor John Mooney said will add about $42 per year for a home assessed at $205,000. "The municipal tax rate will increase two cents, resulting in an approximate $42 annual ($3.48 monthly) increase for the average home assessed at $205,000," Mooney told the Committee and public.
Mooney said the budget relies on about $90,000 more of fund balance than the prior year and cited major cost drivers including an approximately $35,000 increase in health‑benefits premiums, a roughly $18,000 change in health‑benefits waiver funding, and a $50,000 emergency appropriation carried over from the prior year. He also noted State Health Benefits Plan premiums rose "approximately 32–35% statewide" this year. The budget includes no new bond issuance because outstanding debt was paid off.
During the public‑hearing portion of the meeting, members of the Knowlton senior organization objected to an approximate $1,000 reduction in funding for the program, saying the group had not received an increase in many years. Committeeman Mazza offered a personal contribution of $500 to help address the concern. Auditor Mooney and Committee members explained rules governing fund‑balance use and statutory levy caps and noted midyear transfers remain possible if demonstrated needs arise.
The Committee voted to adopt the budget by roll call: Baley — Yes; Lembeck — Absent; Mazza — Yes; Starrs — Yes; Shipps — Yes. The motion carried 4–0. The Committee indicated it may consider midyear adjustments if additional needs are demonstrated or emergencies occur.
