Supervisor's Note: July 2022
Although we are only halfway through 2022, the Town of Penfield is already developing its budget for next year.

As we craft the 2023 budget, we will ensure Town operations run effectively while adhering to Penfield’s tradition of fiscal responsibility. With that, our Town Board is continuously seeking ways to create a better Penfield, including enhancing or adding services to benefit residents.

Budget timeline

Currently, our Comptroller and I are meeting with department heads to evaluate needs for the upcoming fiscal year. From this information, we will create a draft budget.

Work on the draft budget will continue through early fall with the presentation of the tentative budget to the Town Board in September, and the public hearing for the 2023 preliminary budget in October. A final budget will be adopted by the Town Board in early November.

Based on the approved budget, a tax levy is then finalized to fund the budget. Please note, the New York State Property Tax Cap Law establishes a limit on the annual growth of property taxes levied by towns.  I also want to remind you that the portion of your tax bill which goes to the Town of Penfield for general governmental services accounts for just about 8% of your total annual tax bill.

Public feedback encouraged

As a resident and taxpayer, you are welcome to provide input on the budgeting process. The early stages of the process are a great time to provide feedback on programs and services you feel are important.

Over the last few months, I have received input on services residents feel the Town should enhance and/or currently lacks, and I have captured that feedback (yes, really) to refer to when planning next year’s budget. This includes requests I’ve received to add services such as curbside leaf pick up and brush collection.

The Town Board carefully considers and reviews expenditures to ensure the Town is operating efficiently while meeting the needs of residents. Although we all would like everything we want to be included in the annual budget, we know that is not achievable.

Moving forward, Town Board meetings offer public comment opportunities at which time you can share input on the budget. I encourage you to attend the public hearing on the Preliminary Budget in October. If you cannot attend in-person, you can also watch the livestream and participate via phone or email.  

We appreciate your feedback as this assists us in shaping the budget. Having citizens engaged in government is critical, including the budgeting process. Ultimately, our Town Board is here to work for you.

Please do not hesitate to reach out should you have any questions about our budgeting process. Our website is also a great resource for information. I plan to provide additional updates as we move through the process.

Marie Cinti
Town Supervisor