During their work session on Monday night, Quakertown council presented the borough's 2022 operating budget with the announcement that it comes with no increase in real estate taxes or utility rates. Council Vice President James Roberts presented highlights of the budget, which totals $29,541,584 in expenses, noting that the tax rate will again remain at 1.625 mills.

            According to Roberts, that rate has not changed since 1968, when it was decreased.

            With revenue projected at $26,795,337, the 2022 budget will use $2,746,247 in carryover funds to complete several large-scale projects in the borough and reduce monthly debt service.

            According to Borough Manager Scott McElree, anticipated grant funds may further augment revenue. McElree also noted that investments in several large projects this year would position the borough to create future revenue.

            "Next year when you come here, you won't see a number with parenthesis around it," Roberts added.

            Other highlights include park and infrastructure improvements, including sidewalk and parking lot repairs as well as ongoing water, sewer and electric upgrades. The borough will also purchase an electric vehicle as well as a recycling truck for their waste collection service.

            Major upgrades to the community swimming pool, QNB's Playground and the borough's veteran's memorial are also included and are all scheduled for completion in 2022.  A community garden is planned for space behind the Action Park on Main Street, which will also receive funds for additional improvements. Funds are budgeted for engineering and planning 2023 improvements to Cedar Grove Park, located on Roan Tree Drive. 

            Park investments will include expansion of lawn seating and other improvements at the Univest Performance Center, home of the borough's Sounds of Summer concert series. McElree announced that the 2021 concert series brought in approximately $180,000 in profit. The 2022 line-up will include six performances still being finalized.

            Community services investments include the annual contribution to the Quakertown Fire Department and support for Quakertown Alive!, downtown beautification and the senior center.

            The advertised budget can be viewed at borough hall and is scheduled for adoption during the borough's regular December 1 meeting. The borough will also adopt its 2022 meeting schedule, which will include a reorganization meeting on January 3, 2022.

            Council adjourned to an executive session to discuss litigation matters.