William Nicholson

2027 Town Budget

The proposed 2027 budget shows about $13.9 million in property taxes, up slightly from the 2026 budget.

Highway department project costs

$350,000 in state funding offsets most of the cost of a new machine.

Property Tax Cap Override for Fiscal Year 2027

Doesn't raise taxes by itself, but allows the proposed levy to run roughly 5% above the cap — about $5 per $1,000 of assessed value.

Trash and brush collection bid extension

Contract value not yet determined; bids now due August 19, 2026.

Trash and Brush Bid Delay

Contract terms may change; cost impact not yet known.

Highway equipment fleet renewal

$350,000 in state funding offsets most of the cost of a new machine.

Town health insurance switch to Tompkins County consortium

Monthly premiums actually dip slightly — singles drop about $14 and families about $25 from 2026 rates — easing cost pressure on the town and its employees.

Settlement of three tax certiorari lawsuits

Settled assessments could reduce the town's property tax base and revenue, though the settlement amounts were not disclosed in open session.

Town Clerk compensation

The reduction from 6% to 5% lowers the Clerk's proposed salary to approximately $72,902.

Boardroom audio upgrade

$31,767 from remaining ARPA funds.

2027 tentative budget

Health insurance alone is expected to exceed $2.5 million, plus over $1.5 million for the retirement program.

B-Fund Budget Deficit

The B-Fund shortfall will require budget adjustments during the year.

Maxwell facility study and police department review

Unknown — the study will shape future facility spending decisions.

Bonadio forensic audit of town finances

No financial irregularities found; cost of implementing control recommendations not yet known.

Vacant councilor seat

IT services rebid for budget savings

Potential savings in one of the town's more expensive service contracts.

2026 fee schedule increases

Higher permit and service fees for residents and businesses starting in 2026.

Planning Board vs. Supervisor over engineer hire

Miller's engineering work is funded by developer escrow deposits at no cost to the town, per his proposal.

Property Assessments and Taxes

Could shift some property tax burden if a broad exemption is adopted; current town exemption levels already reduce affected veterans' bills by thousands.