Webster introduces proposed 2026 budget that expands services supports community growth and ensures protection for taxpayers

Webster, New York – The Town of Webster is taking another step toward shaping its financial future after the Webster Town Board voted on September 4 to adopt the tentative 2026 budget as the official preliminary budget. The decision follows months of careful planning, department workshops, and financial reviews, and it sets the stage for a public hearing scheduled for October before a final vote later this fall.

Town Supervisor Tom Flaherty and Director of Finance Paul Adams began the budget process back in April, kicking off discussions with department leaders and the Town Board. Department heads presented detailed budget requests during workshops on July 31 and August 7, laying the groundwork for a spending plan that leaders say balances investments with fiscal responsibility.

For Flaherty, the proposed 2026 plan reflects both stability and progress. “The Town of Webster remains dedicated to serving residents,” he said. “The 2026 budget renews our commitment to investing in infrastructure, providing ample opportunity for economic progress, and enhancing the quality-of-life services and programs in Webster. Taxpayers can be assured that the Town of Webster is continuing our tradition of responsible budgeting by keeping this year’s budget below the New York State tax cap and budgeting with the future of our community in mind.”

Investing in the Basics

At the heart of the budget is infrastructure—both the visible kind, like roads and parks, and the behind-the-scenes systems that quietly keep the community running. The preliminary plan calls for major investments in sewer infrastructure, maintenance of town roads, and technology upgrades aimed at improving accessibility and communication.

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Officials emphasized that infrastructure spending is not just about meeting today’s needs but about saving money in the long run. By maintaining and modernizing systems now, the town hopes to avoid costly emergency repairs and preserve service reliability for years to come.

Building Economic Momentum

The 2026 plan also underscores Webster’s push to remain a hub for business growth and economic vitality. One of the cornerstones is the ongoing transformation of the Wastewater Treatment Plant into a Water Resource Recovery Facility, a project designed to position the town as a regional leader in sustainable utility management.

Revitalization efforts are also front and center. The West Webster Hamlet is a key focus area, along with updates to the Town’s Comprehensive Plan to ensure future growth aligns with community needs. Partnerships with the Webster Economic Development Alliance and the Webster Chamber of Commerce are expected to help attract new investment and strengthen existing businesses.

Town leaders point to recent examples such as fairlife® and McAlpin Industries choosing Webster for expansion as proof that the local economy remains attractive. With job opportunities on the rise and strategic investments underway, officials believe the town is well-positioned to sustain economic progress in the years ahead.

Enhancing Quality of Life

Beyond roads and budgets, Webster’s leaders say the 2026 budget speaks to what makes the community desirable—a strong emphasis on services that touch everyday lives. Funding is set aside for public safety, including the Webster Police Department, as well as recreation programs, library services, and maintenance of the town’s park system.

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Residents will also continue to benefit from seasonal services that are often cited as community favorites. Fall leaf collection and spring mulch and wood chip delivery and pickup remain fully funded, ensuring that popular conveniences are not lost in the shuffle of financial balancing. These programs, alongside recreation opportunities and park improvements, reinforce the image of Webster as a place where families can thrive.

A Tradition of Responsible Budgeting

While new projects and expanded services are a highlight, town officials stress that taxpayer protection remains a guiding principle. For the seventh consecutive year, the budget stays under the New York State tax cap, providing stability for residents who have seen relatively steady rates despite inflation and capital project costs.

The 2026 proposal also includes a $400,000 allocation into the Sewer Capital Reserve, money that will be earmarked for future plant repairs and asset renewal. By proactively setting aside these funds, the town hopes to prevent sudden tax increases and ensure critical infrastructure remains reliable.

Town leaders acknowledge that inflation and rising debt from large capital projects present ongoing challenges, but they argue that Webster’s consistent approach to budgeting has kept the community in strong financial health. Careful planning, they say, allows the town to manage costs without sacrificing the services residents rely on.

Looking Ahead

The preliminary budget is far from finalized. A public hearing is scheduled for October 16, giving residents an opportunity to voice their opinions and concerns before the Town Board makes a final decision in late October or early November. An electronic copy of the full budget is available on the Town of Webster’s website, giving taxpayers a chance to review the details themselves.

As the process moves forward, town officials are framing the budget as more than just numbers on a page. They see it as a blueprint for Webster’s continued growth, resilience, and livability. With commitments to infrastructure, economic opportunity, and quality-of-life services, leaders argue that the 2026 plan reflects the town’s values while safeguarding its future.

The months of preparation, the hours of discussion, and the balancing act between investment and responsibility have all led to this point. Whether it is the modernization of sewer systems, the revitalization of historic hamlets, or simply making sure leaves get picked up each fall, the preliminary budget aims to cover the essentials while preparing for tomorrow.

In the words of Flaherty, the work is ultimately about residents and the community they call home. The 2026 budget, he said, is not just about staying on track but about pushing Webster forward in a way that protects its unique character and ensures that, as the town’s motto reminds, life here is indeed worth living.