Budgets Pass in Binghamtin, Union and Vestal

Several municipalities in Broome County are passing their final budget plans, all including tax increases.

A 4-3 vote along party lines allowed thirteen vetoes on changes to Binghamton Mayor Richard David’s budget proposal to stand.

That means a .5% increase in the tax rate.

The thirteen vetoes on changes made by council to the mayor’s budget proposal are not sitting well with the Democrat minority with one councilmember calling the move a slap in the face to council and the budget process.

Binghamton City Council approved a pay raise for the panel starting in 2016.  Council members’ compensation will be going from $7,000 to $8,000.

In Vestal, the tax rate goes up 5.6%.

The final Town of Union spending plan carries a tax increase of 2.9% for areas of the Town in the Villages of Endicott and Johnson City and 2.3% for the part-town area.

The Town Board approved the spending plan unanimously.