Fire Department’s 2027 Budget Public Hearing Tonight at 7 PM
Estimated tax rate at $1.32/M, down from the $1.51/M estimated in May
By John T. Ryan
October 20, 2026 – Peru Fire Department Trustees will hold a public hearing on the Department’s 2027 budget from 7 to 8 PM in a bay behind the Fire Station shell. Residents and interested persons can make comments and ask questions.
The budget estimates a tax rate of $1.32/M, a 32.8% increase over 2026, but considerably less than the $1.51/M rate projected on May 5 when voters gave final approval to the Fire Station expansion project. Fire Commissioner Chad Frechette told the Gazette, “We did everything we could to save taxpayers money.”
The proposed budget totals $1,069,442, up from $766,116 this year. Major new expenses include $201,040 in Bond Principal and $135,000 in Bond Interest. Major reductions include $165,000 for engineers and consultants and $3,000 for the Chief’s salary. The 2027 budget includes $0 for the Chief.
The proposed 2027 budget is attached. The “Beg. Balance” column represents the 2026 budget.
Posted: October 20th, 2026 under Community Events, Fire Department News, Peru News.