A Rare Fiscal Feat: Upper Burrell Holds the Line on Taxes, Again

In an era where every municipality seems to be grappling with rising costs and the inevitable conversation about tax increases, the folks in Upper Burrell have, for once, managed a truly remarkable feat. They've passed their 2024 budget, and here's the kicker: absolutely no real estate tax hike. It's a breath of fresh air, a testament, you could say, to careful stewardship and a clear understanding of community needs.

You see, for years now, the supervisors here have consistently managed to 'hold the line on taxes,' as Supervisor Ross Walker put it, and 2024 is no different. The millage rate? Still sitting comfortably at 12 mills. Honestly, in today's economic climate, that's not just good news; it's practically a small miracle for the residents.

So, how exactly do they do it, you might wonder, balancing the books at a robust $2.2 million without dipping deeper into the pockets of property owners? Well, property taxes, naturally, form the bedrock of the township's income, projected to bring in a healthy $1.25 million. But it’s not just that. The township also smartly taps into other revenue streams – state liquid fuels funds (absolutely vital for those essential road projects), cable franchise fees, permits, and even those pesky fines, which, let's be frank, do contribute to the coffers.

And it's not as if this careful budgeting means skimping on crucial services or necessary upgrades. Quite the contrary. The 2024 budget wisely allocates about $55,000 for a brand-new police cruiser, replacing an older model that’s, well, seen better days. Because, really, what's more important than ensuring our first responders have reliable equipment to keep us safe? Beyond that, there's a thoughtful investment of $30,000 earmarked for a new street sweeper. And no, it’s not just for aesthetics; it's primarily for dust control on the township's many dirt roads, a quality-of-life improvement that impacts daily living for a good number of folks.

Not stopping there, the budget also carves out around $10,000 for new computers at the municipal building – a quiet but crucial upgrade to keep operations running smoothly in our increasingly digital world. And, in a smaller but deeply meaningful gesture, $2,000 is set aside for new flags at the war memorial. It’s a subtle nod, a quiet way of honoring those who served, ensuring that a symbol of respect and remembrance remains fresh and vibrant for the community.

The supervisors, by all accounts, seem to be on the same page, with the budget passing unanimously 3-0. And as they prepare for their annual reorganization in January, it’s clear that Upper Burrell isn’t just balancing its books; it’s balancing progress with fiscal responsibility, all while keeping the community’s best interests – and wallets – firmly in mind. It's a truly commendable approach, one that other municipalities could, in truth, certainly take a page from.