Bensalem Township Council Meeting - January 12, 2026

The Bensalem Township Council held a meeting on January 12, 2026, focusing primarily on budget discussions and procurement-related policies. Council members discussed the potential reopening of the 2026 budget to address a projected general fund deficit of approximately $8.9 million, emphasizing that the intent was not to cut services or raise taxes but to align the budget with realistic figures. They reviewed contractual obligations, including union contracts that constitute about 73% of the operating budget, and agreed on the importance of council involvement in reviewing collective bargaining agreements before final adoption. The council also discussed the implementation and updates to the Responsible Contractor Ordinance (RCO), which applies to capital projects over $10,000 and includes requirements for apprenticeship programs and OSHA safety training for contractors. Additionally, the council explored options for electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure in townhome communities, considering grant opportunities and potential partnerships to fund public charging stations. Finally, the council accepted the resignation of a township auditor and outlined the process for appointing a replacement. No votes were taken to amend the budget during this meeting, but plans were made for further review and potential amendments before the February 15 deadline.