Nazareth's Proposed 2013 Budget Includes Half-Mill Increase

The proposed 2013 budget for the borough of Nazareth -- which includes a half-mill property tax increase -- adds up to $4,230,485.

Nazareth Borough Council agreed to a half-mill boost in 2012, bringing the tax rate to 11.5 mills. If approved, the new property tax rate would be 12.0 mills and would mean a $25 annual increase for the average homeowner ($50,000 assessment).

In addition to the proposed tax increase, the budget includes funding for:

• A $28,000 skid-steer for the Highway Department.

• The lease/purchase of a new sport-utility vehicle for the Nazareth Borough Police Department. The cost is $13,000 for the first year of a three-year lease.

• The hiring of one full-time police officer. The officer's salary would be $20,000, plus $20,000 for benefits.

• A $196,000 workers' compensation policy.

• A $150,000 "volunteer fire loan," to be paid off in 15 years.

• Continued work on a stormwater project on Spring Street. The cost is estimated at $154,000.

• A $2,500 upgrade for the borough's website.

The proposed 2013 budget -- in its entirety -- will be available for public inspection for 10 days beginning Nov. 9 and ending Nov. 21. It can be viewed at Nazareth Borough Hall, 134 S. Main St., from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.