By Mary A. Crisafulli
ROXBURY - The Roxbury Town Board presented the preliminary 2026 budget totaling $4,274,977, with nearly $3 million to be raised by taxes. The proposed budget does not include the three fire districts—Roxbury, Grand Gorge, and Middletown/Hardenburgh.
The total tax increase is estimated at 6.12% or $158,323, roughly $93,992 over the allowable tax cap. The total tax levy is proposed at $2,745,202.
A public hearing on the proposed budget is scheduled for Thursday, Nov. 6, at 6 p.m. Directly preceding the budget hearing at 5:45 p.m. is a hearing regarding a local law to override the state-mandated 2% tax cap.
The general budget appropriations are expected to decrease by $68,862, bringing the total to $1,265,700. The Highway appropriations are also proposed to decrease by $40,912 for a total of $2,027,071. However, the amount to be raised by taxes for general and highway is proposed to increase $114,001. This can happen when budget lines funded by tax revenue increase while other line items decrease.
For example, Bookkeeper Beth Bush said the general fund had a decrease in appropriations, an increase in revenues, and no unexpended balance, which led to a tax levy increase.
"Our budget this year has been tough. Standard expenses have increased across the board," said Supervisor Allen Hinkley, "We have worked hard to do the best that we can to keep the budget in line." He noted that increases in insurance and energy costs are greatly impacting finances. The town has continued to invest in and repair roads, he added, "working to keep them as safe as possible for everyone."
The budget includes the following annual salaries for elected officials: council members, $6,427.25 each; both Justices, $11,138.50 each; supervisor, $18,631.00; tax Collector, $12,429.00; town clerk, $51,450.00; highway superintendent $77,388.00.
The preliminary budget is available to view at roxburyny.com.
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