September 9, 2026 Budget Workshop

The Lower Merion Township Board of Commissioners held a budget workshop on September 9, 2026, focusing on the proposed 2027 budget. Key procurement-related discussions included the planned replacement of the township's ERP system, with a request for proposals completed and finalist demonstrations forthcoming, aiming for contract awards in early 2027. The finance department anticipates increased professional and technical costs related to court processes. The township also considered adding a 12-month ICMA fellowship position to support strategic project management, though commissioners expressed mixed views on this temporary staffing request. Public information proposed adding a year-round part-time position to support ADA compliance and content production, replacing an internship role. The parking department highlighted plans to rehabilitate a parking lot and install electric vehicle chargers, pending board guidance on parking meter policies. Parks and recreation requested additional staffing and operational funding for the new Ardmore Avenue Community Center. Library services proposed upgrading two existing positions to better support children's programming. The police department presented a proposal to acquire a new automated drone system for first responder use, integrated with the existing Axon system, at an estimated $75,000 annually over five years; commissioners raised concerns about privacy, policy, and timing, with no immediate approval given. Building and planning discussed enforcement challenges related to the gas-powered leaf blower ordinance and requested an additional $10,000 for a business district survey. Public works outlined budget increases driven largely by rising sanitary sewer fees from the Philadelphia Water Department and fuel cost increases, with ongoing efforts to improve recycling education and sustainability initiatives. Several departments noted staffing challenges and the need for continued budget refinement as contract negotiations and insurance renewals progress. No formal votes were recorded during this workshop, but multiple requests and proposals were discussed for further consideration in the upcoming budget process.