Though it won't be official until commissioners adopt the 2014 budget Dec.16, it appears that Bethlehem Township taxpayers will dodge a tax hike next year.

The sewer rates will remain the same, too. Finance Director Andrew Freda has unveiled a proposed budget for next year which keeps the tax millage rate steady at 5.99 mills. Under this spending plan, the annual tax bill for a home assessed at $85,000 will be about $509.

At their Nov. 18 meeting, commissioners unanimously agreed to advertise the budget, which will also be available for inspection at the municipal building.

The $17 million spending plan includes funds for two entry-level police officers who were selected out of a field of 400 applicants. It also includes a $683,000 payment on existing debt.

Bethlehem Township has gone without a tax hike since 2009.