Whitehall Township Mayor Edward D. Hozza Jr. rolled out the administration's 2015 proposed budget Oct. 15.

The budget anticipates $21.3 million in expenses, up slightly from $20.6 million this year. The real estate tax of 2.8 mills remains unchanged.

The board of commissioners will hold public hearings on the proposed budget Oct. 28-30. Although the board may alter the budget slightly, no major cuts or additions are expected to be made to the proposed budget prepared by Deputy Mayor Jack Meyers and Hozza.

Residents who own a home assessed at $200,000 will pay $560 in real estate taxes and $280 if the property is assessed at $100,000.

"The proposed 2015 spending plan continues our investment in technology upgrades, replacement of heavy equipment, improvements to our infrastructure, namely street reconstruction, park repairs and storm water systems," Hozza said. "I included $450,000 for a new fire truck at Station 37 West Catasauqua, two new replacement police vehicles and $54,000 for replacing two public works pickup trucks."

Revenue will be generated from $6.1 million in property taxes, $5.9 million in earned income taxes and $1.8 million in anticipated business privilege taxes.

The police department is budgeted at $4.8 million, including $3,485,161 in officers salaries and $405,000 for overtime. The police department has a contract with the township.

Also, $5.64 million is budgeted for public works and $2.4 million for a new refuse contract.

A total of $205,496 is set aside for the Spruce Street upgrade, from Adams to Spring streets. The Water Street ramp street lights at Darktown are projected at $27,500.

Parks and recreation is budgeted at $901,944, down slightly from $939,000 this year. Another $60,000 is earmarked for the reconstruction of the Cementon courts.

A major cost includes the anticipated $6.1 million for insurance, benefits and transfers. This includes $215,000 in pension obligations and nearly $85,000 more for health care.