BELFAST — The City of Belfast will hold a public hearing about its proposed b $16 million 2025-2026 budget in Council Chamber at Belfast City Hall Tuesday, June 17, at 7 p.m.

The budgets shows a modest increase in spending, but suggests an increased reliance on local taxpayer contributions amid a decline in non-tax revenue sources.

According to budget figures released by the City, the total budget for the upcoming fiscal year is $16,055,559, up from $15,736,463 in 2024–2025.

The City's net portion of the budget — the amount it must raise locally after accounting for other revenues — has likewise increased from $6,970,472 to the proposed $7,548,299. The net portion reflects the amount the City must cover primarily through property taxes and other core municipal revenues. It represents the cost of delivering essential city services such as police, fire protection, emergency response services, public works, administration, and other community programs.

Total revenue, which includes income from state aid, grants, fees, and other non-tax sources, is projected to decline in the coming year. The City expects to bring in $8,457,260 in revenue for 2025–2026, down from $8,765,991 in the current fiscal year. 

With rising expenditures and falling revenues, the 2025–2026 budget underscores the challenges local governments face in balancing service demands with fiscal sustainability.

Erica Thoms can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com