The Town of Bristol has unveiled its tentative budget for 2025, featuring a total expenditure of just over $4 million, with a slight decrease in the tax rate for residents. The proposed budget, which covers general townwide services, highway maintenance, fire protection, and the water district, reflects a commitment to maintaining services while controlling costs.
Under the new budget, the townwide tax rate is projected to decrease from $2.74 per $1,000 of assessed property value in 2024 to $2.71 in 2025. Fire protection services will also see a slight increase in cost to taxpayers, with the rate rising from $0.77 to $0.79 per $1,000 of assessed value.
Key budget highlights
The general townwide budget allocates $1.9 million to cover services such as administrative operations, parks, zoning, and animal control. The town will also invest heavily in infrastructure, including road maintenance and equipment for the highway department, which will receive $1.85 million in funding.
One of the largest investments in the budget is for fire protection services, with $234,000 allocated to ensure safety and emergency preparedness. This marks a modest increase from 2024’s $227,250, keeping pace with inflation and rising operational costs.
Stable financial outlook
Despite rising costs in areas such as insurance and personnel, the town has managed to keep the budget within its tax cap limit. The town anticipates staying $27,923 under the maximum allowable tax levy. Additionally, Bristol has a healthy fund balance, with the general fund projected to end 2024 with $1.8 million, equivalent to 62% of the 2025 budget.
Highway maintenance remains a significant portion of the town’s expenses, with $208,000 allocated for street administration and an additional $265,000 for permanent road improvements. The town also plans to invest $105,000 in machinery and equipment.
Focus on community services
Bristol’s budget includes a variety of community services, such as $66,500 for the public library, $12,000 for youth projects, and $3,000 for cemetery upkeep. The town also continues to support environmental efforts with funding for watershed cleanup projects in Canandaigua and Honeoye lakes.
Additionally, elected officials’ salaries are outlined in the budget, with the town supervisor earning $20,550 and the highway superintendent receiving $73,550.
Next steps
The tentative budget is subject to further review and potential adjustments before final approval. Residents are encouraged to participate in upcoming public hearings to provide feedback.
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