Jefferson Hills officials adopt 2021 budget, no tax hike

Jefferson Hills property owners will not have to worry about their real estate taxes going up as a result of the borough’s 2021 budget.

Council unanimously voted Monday night to approve next year’s spending plan and maintain the current tax rate of 5.66 mills.

Council vice president Dave Montgomery said it was a solid budget that maintains all services, and includes no hikes in sewage or garbage collection rates.

Projected revenues and expenditures were balanced at about $10.9 million.

Revenue includes about $5 million in real estate collection and a little more than $2 million in earned income tax.

Expenses include $525,000 for paving, $300,000 for a new public works truck, $79,000 for two new police cars and related equipment and $486,000 for parks and recreation.

Recreation funds include a $202,500 contribution to the Jefferson Hills Public Library. It is the same amount allocated this year.

Borough Manager John Stinner said prior to the meeting that recreation improvements next year include resurfacing the pickle ball and tennis courts at 885 Park, installing sprinkler systems at Beedle and 885 ball fields, adding more handicapped seating at 885 Park and adding a new field to Tede Park.

Cameras will be installed at all parks as part of an overall upgrade to the borough’s security systems.

One of the goals of having the cameras is to help catch vandals.

Montgomery said covid closures did impact borough revenue.

The borough lost about $71,000 in earned income tax this year due to the pandemic.

However, it made up for the shortfall in real estate collection with property evaluations up 6.6%.

That was likely due to the new homes being built.

The budget is available for review at the borough building, 925 Old Clairton Road.

In other financial matters, council authorized several purchases Monday night.

Council agreed to obtain a recreational management software system at a cost not to exceed $8,000.

It is expected to help organize rentals and other park-related items.

Council approved the purchase of a salt brine application sprayer for about $2,500.