The budget for 2006 is lower than what the borough spent last year because of flood-related expenses.
By: Linda Seida
STOCKTON The Borough Council has approved a 2006 budget of $544,783, which includes an increase of almost $18,000 over last year’s anticipated budget, but is less than what the borough actually spent in 2005 because of flood-related expenses.
The borough’s 2005 budget was $527,067. But in a year of extensive damage from a major disaster, the borough actually spent $583,567.
"We’re really struggling to deal with the consequences of the flood," said Councilwoman Constance Bassett, who chairs the Finance Committee.
The borough was forced to make an emergency appropriation of $40,000 in the wake of the flood in April 2005.
Also, some additional costs are associated with preparing for the repair of Mill Street, Ms. Bassett said.
Much of the project will be paid for by state grants, but the borough’s cost for engineering services jumped $3,000 to $6,500. And street and road maintenance rose $5,500 to $12,500.
Legal services fees remained steady at $10,000. Aid to the volunteer fire company also remained steady at $13,000.
Salaries and wages account for $81,880 of the borough’s operating expenses while other operating expenses equal $238,825.
Capital improvements account for $54,000. Debt service equals $17,481. In reserve for uncollected taxes is $108,000. Deferred charges and other appropriations equal $44,597.
Local taxes raised for municipal purposes will total $243,172. In 2005, the amount collected for municipal purposes was $225,463.

