South Whitehall residents can look forward to another year without a tax increase, a tradition dating back to 1991.

However, the actual millage will look different when property owners receive their bills.

Because of the 2012 county reassessment, the 4.9 millage of the past has been transcribed to 1.64875 mills.

Township Manager Jon Hammer commented on the change.

"This is the same real tax rate given by the county," Hammer said. "It is based on the overall assessment of all properties in the township."

During the Dec. 19 commissioners' meeting, Hammer said staff were able to avoid a tax increase through good financial planning over a period of years.

"We budgeted appropriately for only the expenses which are necessary," Hammer said. "The voluntary early retirement plan helped by bringing a significant amount toward the 2013-14 budget."

He mentioned several challenges influencing this budget and those in the future, including increased health care costs and pension obligations, a dwindling capital reserve fund and stagnant revenues.

Hammer reported the budget was the culmination of many months of work by the administration and included several sessions in the fall with commissioners.

"This is a budget we're proud to present for adoption tonight," Hammer said.

Commissioners granted unanimous approval to the document.

In other business, the board approved a 4-year contract for public works employees who are Teamsters Union members.

Salary increases are 1.5 percent in 2013; 2 percent in 2014; 2.75 percent in 2015; and 3.25 percent in 2016.

The weekly health insurance contribution for a traditional plan will be $8.79 for a single employee; $16.54 for a two-party household; and $23.61 for a family.

Hammer reported the contract was the result of many months of work among the administration, Director of Public Works Bob Ibach and union representatives.

The contract, for 38 employees, replaces one expiring Dec. 31.