Huntingdon Approves Budget with No Increases to Tax or Water Rates

HUNTINGDON (June 23) — During its June 23 meeting, the Huntingdon Town Council approved the fiscal year 2026-27 budget, maintaining current tax and water rates without any increases.

The General Fund projects anticipated revenues of $5,985,750 against expenditures of $6,185,350, resulting in a budgeted deficit of $199,600. The property tax rate was established at $0.7744 per $100 of assessed value.

The Council also elected to keep water rates unchanged from the current year. The Water and Sewer Fund reflects total budgeted operating revenues of $2,898,550 and operating expenses of $2,701,250.

Following a newly approved operating agreement with the non-profit Friends of the Dixie, the city-owned Dixie Carter Performing Arts Center is projected to generate a net income of $141,543. This marks a significant turnaround from the $290,300 loss expected for the year ending June 30, 2026. The 2027 fiscal year is anticipated to conclude with a $7,031,179 reserve in the General Fund and a net position of $15,366,528 in the Water and Sewer Fund.

The Board formally approved a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Friends of the Dixie. This agreement outlines the respective responsibilities of the town and the non-profit regarding maintenance, payroll, operations, and talent recruitment.

In other business, the Council approved an updated policy for fire protection and fireworks, which was revised with assistance from the Municipal Technical Advisory Service.

Finally, the ATA accounting firm was appointed to conduct the city’s audit at a base cost of $32,600. The agreement includes $3,500 for a chart of accounts and an additional fee of $4,500 for further services if required.