No Tax Increase in Salisbury's Preliminary 2012 Budget

The approved a preliminary $11 million budget for 2012 that does not raise taxes.

“We are expecting a pretty good year compared to what we anticipated in ,” said Township Manager Randy Soriano. “We are starting out the year with $3 million in cash.” The commissioners voted unanimously at their Nov. 22 meeting to accept the $11 million preliminary budget for 2012.

The 34-page document is now posted on the township’s Web site at www.salisburytownshippa.org. A printed version is available for public inspection at the township municipal building at 2900 S. Pike Ave. during office hours.

A vote on the final approved budget is expected before the end of the year. The next board meetings are Dec. 8 and Dec. 22.

Township officials are proposing to maintain the tax rate of 3.57 mills because more than $1 million in revenue was generated than expected. Total revenue for 2012 is projected at $11,208,700; total operating expenses at $11,642,697, and the budget deficit at $433,997. Negative fund balances will be made up by operational reserves.

Operating expenditures in all categories (general government, public safety, sanitation, public works and insurance etc.) will remain close to 2011 levels.

The proposed budget calls for a and a public works department down several positions due to retirements and unfilled vacancies. Non-union employees will contribute more to their health benefits.