No tax increase for Columbia but only by draining reserves

JOE LINTNER | COLUMBIA SPY 

Council might avoid raising taxes for 2026 but only by depleting the borough's financial reserves.

After a meandering discussion at Thursday's budget meeting, council members informally agreed to advertise the budget "as is," presumably meaning no increase in taxes. No millage increase was proposed.

As it currently stands, council will need to cover a projected $1.1 million shortfall by draining the borough's reserve fund, which currently holds that amount—if it wants to avoid a tax increase. 

The move means Columbia will enter the new year with no emergency funds and no financial cushion for unexpected expenses that may arise during 2026.

Council will likely vote to advertise the budget at its next meeting on November 25 and vote to pass the budget sometime in December.