The 2026 Town of Vestal Budget has been finalized. It is under the tax cap, and all town services will continue, as they are now. For the first time ever, the town budget is completely transparent, is an accurate itemization of expected costs, and is part of a comprehensive financial plan.
The town budget is now completely transparent. Notes have been added to the budget, clearly explaining each line. The members of the Town Board encourage every Vestal resident to read the town budget, so that they understand where every tax dollar is going.
Also, for the first time, the Town Board considered all expected expenditures, revenues, and capitals at the same time. The consideration of all expenses (budgetary and capital) at the same time establishes a comprehensive financial plan and allows for careful expenditure and debt management.
Every line in the budget has been reviewed, and adjusted, to ensure that it is realistic. All lines in the 2026 budget accurately reflect the expected costs.
This budget was very difficult. Fixed costs increased dramatically (liability insurance, utilities, professional services, software, health insurance, contractual salaries, pensions, etc.). General Fund fixed costs increased $973,769, and Highway fixed costs increased $637,632. Fixed costs are set costs and cannot be reduced.
Every department head worked cooperatively with the Comptroller, Supervisor, and Town Board to carefully review every line in the budget, reducing everything possible, without decreasing services.
The members of the Town Board, and all town personnel, are committed to controlling costs, and taxes, for our Vestal residents. The Town Board would like to thank all our personnel for their hard work in this process.
CLICK HERE to read the Town of Vestal 2026 Budget.