The Peru Gazette

By John T. Ryan 

September 28, 2026 – Residents had the opportunity to ask questions and voice opinions about the town’s 2027 budget potentially exceeding the 2% tax levy increase limit at last evening’s Public Hearing. Two people asked questions.

State law requires towns to hold hearings of this nature if they may exceed the tax levy cap. Town Supervisor Craig Randall explained, “Given ongoing cost pressures, the town board has requested the authority to exceed the levy limit for several years. The 2026 budget was the first recent year that we actually exceeded the limit. Sometimes, it’s needed; sometimes it isn’t; you never know.” 

A gentleman who did not identify himself asked if Randall had an idea what the percentage of increase might be. Randall responded,  “This year, frankly, I like to say we can stay under 2%, but the same pressures that are affecting us in our homes are affecting the town as well.” He mentioned fuel, heating costs, water and sewer, and highway department costs. Randall continued, “It’s too early for me to say we will stay under the cap. We’re in the budget season right now. We’re learning department needs. Then we’ll be working on formulating the budget.” 

Later in the meeting, the same gentleman asked what the town is doing to attract more businesses to increase the tax base. Supervisor Randall said the town has applied for a grant to update the Comprehensive Plan, which hasn’t been updated for about 20 years. Changes in the Zoning Law might result; however, Randall cautioned that updating the Comprehensive Plan is a long process.

Board member Melvin Irwin commented, “Another example is the price of salt. We’re facing a roughly 30% increase. Plus, there’s the fuel to drive those trucks. Everybody is being challenged….Real-world living expenses have gone up about 4.3%, but we’re stuck with that 2%. There’s also uncertain sales tax revenue.” 

Board member Kregg Bruno interjected that the town is saving some money by participating in a community solar program. 

School Board member Bonnie Berry asked Randall for the 2026 increase percentage. She read that the levy increased by $150,000. What percentage did that work out to be? Randall did not know that number, but he said he would find out.  Berry said it would be good to have the same percentage for the 2027 budget. 

Randall outlined the budget process schedule. On October 5, the board will present the consolidated budget. On November 5, the board will conduct a public hearing on the Preliminary Budget to give the public a chance to ask questions and comment. If necessary, the board will hold two budget review sessions. Then,  on Thursday, November 19, the board will adopt the Final Budget. 

Randall closed the Public Hearing, saying the board will also include any comments received in writing in the official record. 

Click here to view the Peru Gazette video of the public hearing.