Northampton Township calls for tax increase in proposed budget – Bucks Round-Up – December 1, 2025
Northampton Township calls for tax increase in proposed budget
Northampton Township is preparing for a tax increase as officials confront rising public safety costs. The preliminary 2026 budget calls for a 2.75-mill real estate tax hike — about $110 more for the average household. Manager Bob Pellegrino outlined the $66.3 million plan, emphasizing that more than half of township spending goes to wages and benefits, with fire and EMS operations driving the largest year-to-year increases. The township’s 24/7 professional fire service, a rarity among nearby municipalities, accounts for $6.8 million alone and continues to rely on general fund transfers to balance costs. Supervisors debated how best to explain the jump to residents, with some calling for clearer comparisons to neighboring communities. Others defended the spending as essential to maintaining Northampton’s five-minute response times and meeting modern expectations for public safety. The budget will be advertised for public review, with potential adoption set for December 10.
Bristol Township holds the line on taxes in proposed 2026 budget
Bristol Township residents are poised to see another year without a tax hike. Township Council voted to advertise its proposed 2026 budget, which holds the millage rate steady at 24.98 with no increases to taxes or fees. The $76.3 million spending plan dedicates $60.5 million to township operations and $15.8 million to capital projects, including $2 million for the Randall Avenue Bridge replacement and upgrades to police technology and fleet vehicles. Residents can review the full draft online before the final vote scheduled for December 18.
Bucks County and region will see its first snowfall with steady rain
Bucks County is set for its first taste of inclement weather, with a mix of snow, sleet, and rain expected to move in early Tuesday morning. The National Weather Service says precipitation should begin between 6 and 8 a.m. Meteorologist Alex Staarman reports that areas closest to I-95 will likely see a wintry mix before quickly turning to rain, while upper Bucks may pick up one to three inches of snow — mainly in the higher elevations — before the warm air pushes north. Lower Bucks and Mercer County should see an inch or less. Once the changeover occurs, rain will become moderate to heavy, dropping about an inch overall. No flooding is anticipated, and Staarman notes the region could use the moisture.
Joe LeCompte hosts LeCompte in the Morning on WBCB 1490.
