There will not be a property tax increase in Schuylkill Township in 2024.

Monday night, the supervisors adopted a $698,212 spending plan that calls millage rate to remain at 10.22.

The supervisors approved the spending plan after discussing it for an hour, and calling Dana Brubaker, who was doing her first budget for the township after being appointed township treasurer last month.

Brubaker calculated the budget only by what is anticipated for income, and what is expected for expenses, which showed a $193,000 discrepancy.

After discussing the spending plan with Brubaker, the supervisors realized some of the estimated expenses were coming from one-time purchases made with funds the township received from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), which is also known as COVID money. Subtracting those expenses, there was only a $47,000 deficit.

The supervisors are planning to combine $61,183 in liquid fuels funds with half of remaining ARPA funds the township received, which totals $99,000.

Half of that amount will be used for electronic upgrades to the township building. Supervisor Gary Feathers said that includes a phone system, door locks, electronic tablets and a security system. The other half will be used to purchase equipment.

The supervisors also canceled their Dec. 20 work session.

Feathers said for the second time in six months, thieves stole cable off poles in the township, causing a disruption in telephone service for several days.

“It was a main cable,” Feathers said. “They stole about 400 feet of Verizon cable off poles along old Route 209. The fire companies, the township, older adults, and several homes were without service. Verizon didn’t understand the complexity of the situation until they came out to investigate. They (thieves) also hit in West Penn (Township). If you see a bucket truck that isn’t Verizon, or anything like that suspicious, call police.”

Feathers also said the property tax reassessment is happening.

“They will not ask to come into your home,” said Supervisor Charles Fayash. “They will be outside measuring your property. If their measurements are wrong, it is your responsibility to correct them.”

“They will be wearing jackets and carry badges,” Feathers said.

Feathers and Fayash thanked Supervisor Charles Hosler, who leaves the board at the end of the year. In January, Hosler, who chose not to run for re-election, will be replaced by Mike Boyle.

“I’d like to thank Mr. Hosler for his years of service to the township,” Feathers said. “I wish him well in his next adventures.”

“I’d like to welcome Mike Boyle to the board,” Fayash said, “And I’d also like to welcome the new auditor, John Zubris.”