Nov 22, 2016 By Mark Soroka for The 2 min read

WASHINGTON TWP. – For the fourth straight year, township residents won’t see an increase to their taxes.

During a special meeting on Monday, supervisors in the Fayette County community approved a tentative budget of $1,529,430 for 2017.

According to Chairman Dan Moody, the board achieved a balanced budget by looking for different ways to save money and generate other sources of revenue.

“Traditionally, one of our highest utility expenses was street lighting,” he pointed out. “To save money, we invested in LED lighting this past year. We are halfway through installation and we are already seeing a savings of 20 percent in our utility bills. As an added benefit, LEDs produce a better-quality light, which helps to keep our community safer.”

Supervisor Jan Amoroso added that income from gas well fees helps the township to pay for road upgrades and purchase new trucks.

“We are expecting to get about $50,000 in Marcellus Shale money this coming year,” she said. “That money makes a big difference for our township.”

The public can review the proposed budget for the next 20 days at the township’s office. In addition, the budget will be posted on the township’s website at washingtontownshipbellevernon.org. The board will vote on the final budget during its Dec. 14 meeting.

Moody expressed pride in what the board was able to accomplish during the past year.

“Despite working with a limited budget, we were able to make improvements to our roads, upgrade our equipment and enhance staffing,” he said. “We are hoping to have an equally productive year in 2017. For example, we would like to make upgrades to the windows and doors at our municipal building.”

Also during the meeting, Moody noted that Light Up Night is scheduled for 6 p.m. Dec. 2. The event will be held, rain or shine, at the Washington Township Fire Hall. Live music will be offered, as well as refreshments and treats for children.