Columbia Adopts Budget

The Town of Columbia adopted its 2025 budget this month, the first in Herkimer County to do so.

At the Columbia Town Board’s October meeting, Supervisor Nathan Seamon said the budget does not exceed the state tax cap formula.

The $1.3 million budget, which is on the town’s website, is about $10,000 less than the 2024 budget.

The town expects about $100,000 more in revenue, in part due to increasing the amount of money raised by property taxes.

Seamon said a property assessed at $100,000 will pay an additional $20.

No one spoke at the public hearing prior to the Board approving the budget.

In other news Town Clerk Therese Winchester said residents are renewing their dog licenses on time. Five building permits were issued in September.

The Town will likely add to its warranty on the loader rather than selling it.

Highway Superintendent Mark Buddle said the two-year warranty expires in March.

He said the market for used equipment has a lot available, so advised waiting to trade in the loader for a newer one.

Buddle said the Highway Department did tree and brush work on Hollow Road.

Buddle said 130 residents brought stuff for the Fall Trash Day, the most ever in the Fall.

Culverts were done on Richfield Hill Road.

Winchester asked about purchasing a program that would be used for Board agendas and minutes.

Cost was $5,000 a year.

The Golden Horseshoe Trailer Park was due to be inspected last week.

The Planning Board is continuing to work on the Comprehensive Plan.

Chairman Ron Bayzon complimented the group for their hard work.

The Herkimer County Humane Society passed inspection and is again compliant to take animals.

Board members discussed the options for financing the 2025 Western Star plow truck being purchased.

Seamon said he would get more details from the two funding companies.

Councilman Ed Reed said Columbia will be part of a pilot program for a new app that improves communications with residents.

The Board’s next meeting is Nov. 14.