Village Budget Proposal 2025-2026
Executive Summary
Our village is committed to providing excellent public services while responsibly managing taxpayer dollars. The proposed 2025-2026 budget adjustments aim to achieve compliance with New York State’s 2% property tax cap through strategic re-allocations and standardized benefits, potentially yielding approximately $200,000 in sustainable savings while maintaining service quality.
Introduction
As we approach fiscal year 2025-2026, we proactively address budgetary realities to ensure the long-term financial health and vibrancy of our community. The recent dissolution of our village court has already produced structural savings of approximately $200,000 annually—a significant step toward fiscal responsibility. However, additional thoughtful adjustments are necessary to comply fully with New York State’s mandated 2% property tax cap.
We recognize budget adjustments involving public services and employee benefits require careful consideration. Our village employees are essential to our community, and their dedication is highly valued. The following recommendations balance fiscal responsibility and fairness for all stakeholders—our employees, trustees, and taxpayers.
Specific, Time-Phased & Measurable Recommendations
1. Strategic Reallocation of Public Safety Resources
Challenge:
The dissolution of the village court has significantly reduced the need for police and staff overtime related to court security, transport, and administrative presence. This creates an opportunity to strategically reduce overtime spending without affecting staffing levels or public safety coverage.
Solution:
Immediate (0–3 months): Conduct a staffing and overtime audit focused specifically on hours previously allocated to court-related duties.
Short-term (3–6 months): Implement revised shift scheduling and coverage plans that reflect current operational demand.
Mid-term (6–12 months): Publish quarterly public reports tracking overtime hours and cost savings.
Community Benefit:
Maintains full public safety service levels and responsiveness while improving cost-efficiency. No reduction in patrols, emergency response, or coverage—just smarter allocation of time and budget.
Projected Impact:
Estimated annual savings of approximately $100,000, primarily through reduced reliance on overtime once required for court-related responsibilities.
2. Standardizing Employee Healthcare Contributions
Challenge: Long-term sustainability of healthcare benefits requires employee contributions to align with established public-sector benchmarks.
Reference: The following Healthcare cost benchmarks are based on the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) Empire Plan Premium Rates for 2025, available at: https://www.pef.org/articles/news/empire-plan-hmo-premium-rates-for-2025
- Individual Coverage:
- Salary under $50,885: Employee contributes 12%
- Salary $50,885 and above: Employee contributes 16%
- Family Coverage:
- Salary under $50,885: Employee contributes 27%
- Salary $50,885 and above: Employee contributes 31%
Context and Fairness: These adjustments reflect standard practices across New York State public employment while remaining competitive. Implementation would be phased over six months to minimize financial impact on village employees.
Projected Impact: Estimated annual savings of approximately $100,000. Actual savings depend on current employee contributions—higher savings (up to $100,000) are likely if current contributions are significantly below state benchmarks; if current contributions are closer to benchmarks, a more conservative savings estimate ($60,000–$75,000) is realistic.
3. Aligning Trustee Compensation with Service Structure
Challenge: Current benefit structures for part-time trustees may not align with comparable municipal best practices.
Solution:
- Conduct an impartial review comparing trustee compensation across similar-sized municipalities.
- Identify best practices ensuring responsible resource allocation.
- Present findings transparently at a public budget workshop.
Commitment to Fairness: This review aims to align compensation structures with the part-time nature of trustee positions. Any adjustments would be implemented transparently and thoughtfully.
Projected Impact: Potential for meaningful budgetary alignment without diminishing trustee recognition.
Creating a Sustainable Financial Future
Implementing these adjustments could yield approximately $200,000 annually, addressing budget challenges and ensuring compliance with the 2% tax cap. These savings directly benefit village residents by:
- Controlling property tax increases
- Maintaining essential services
- Achieving long-term fiscal sustainability
- Preventing more drastic future measures
Next Steps and Community Engagement
We value transparency and encourage residents to:
- Review detailed materials on the village website
- Submit feedback online
- Participate in the public hearing scheduled for April 7, 2025
Conclusion
By taking measured steps now, we ensure fiscal responsibility and maintain our commitment to excellent public services. These balanced adjustments reflect our dedication to transparency, accountability, and fairness for all stakeholders, securing a sustainable future for our village.
See the Proposed Budget Here:
https://menandsny.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/3-17-25-Preliminary-Budget.pdf
https://menandsny.gov/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/2025-2026-Budget-Presentation.pdf