At the Nov. 10 Bath Borough Council meeting, resolution 2025-010 was approved to pass the 2026 general fund budget that has no property tax increase. Sanitation costs are expected to increase.

Bath Borough Water Authority approved an 8% water rate increase for 2026. To review the borough’s 2026 budget, sanitation agreement and water authority budget, visit the borough’s website at bathborough.org or call the borough office.

A transfer of $300,000 from the borough’s tax account to the borough’s general fund to pay borough bills as needed was approved by council.

Council authorized the transfer of $535,000 from the borough tax account to the capital improvement fund to pay for capital equipment and project expenses.

Council presented a check for $400 to Bath Allen Youth Club and presented a $200 check to Bath Volunteer Fire Department Fire Police. Both organizations had a pronounced presence at the 2025 Bath Old Home Weekend. Both organizations provide community strengthening activities. Council President Frank Hesch provided the two groups with their checks.

Visit bathallen.com to learn about the programs they have for kids and grandkids and for volunteering opportunities.

Anthony Kovalovsky, of Bath Volunteer Fire Department, said the fire department’s popular annual Santa Run is set for Dec. 13, starting 9:30 a.m. and continuing until all family-provided gifts are delivered to residents.

Kovalovsky reported there were 33 fire calls for the month of October and 357 calls year to date.

The fire department has a rich history of serving Bath Borough beyond providing fire and safety services for the Bath community and neighboring municipalities.

Also at the meeting, the new Bath Borough Councilmember handbook was approved by council.

Council discussed a possible agreement between the borough of Bath and the Northampton County Tax Collection Committee to possibly provide file storage space.

Council voted to reappoint Michael Reph to a five-year term to Bath Borough Water Authority’s board of directors.

Council authorized the advertisements of the 2026 borough council, boards, commission and committee schedule of meetings. The full schedule of meetings can be found on the borough’s website.

Lt. Jason Troutman, of Pennsylvania State Police-Troop M, gave a detailed report for 2025 through Sept. 30, comparing the police data for 2025 with 2024. He reminded Bath residents to call the PSP nonemergency number at 610-861-2026 and to call 911 for emergencies.