City Council 2027 Budget Hearing and City Council Meeting 11/10/2026

Easton City Council’s November 10, 2026 meeting included a 2027 budget hearing. Police Chief Carl Scousos reported a proposed police expense budget of about $14.96 million, up roughly 4% from 2026, largely because of salary and health-insurance costs; the police department’s operating budget was nearly flat. The department is pursuing grants toward an estimated $500,000 replacement of aging WatchGuard body cameras. Fire Department operating costs were described as generally stable, with required protective gear and related equipment replaced on a staggered cycle. Council also discussed citywide health-benefit costs, reported as having increased by more than $3 million; the proposed 2027 benefits package for full-time nonunion and management employees was tabled for further review.

Council approved an agreement with Colliers Engineering and Design for stormwater-retention improvements benefiting Easton and Williams Township; permitting was expected in spring 2027, with construction anticipated to begin in summer. It also approved Bill 31 authorizing a lease/sublease with the RDA to refinance a previously issued $6 million tax-revenue anticipation note due by year-end. A $353,000 application for Bushkill Drive sidewalk and pedestrian-lighting improvements was reported. A proposal to auction 14 Winter Village sheds was rejected. The meeting also included a report that the city would provide a later recommendation on balancing the 2027 budget.