By Michael Jones

Staff writer

mjones@observer-reporter.com

Midway Borough Council adopted its 2009 budget Monday night with minor spending increases that will not require it to raise taxes.

Overall spending next year is expected to rise by about $6,000 and the tax rate will remain at 31.25 mills.

The public works department's budget will rise 18 percent to $81,467 due to paving projects and the increasing costs of fuel and road salt.

The police department's budget, still the highest at $93,309, will see a smaller increase of 5 percent over last year because of two officer promotions.

Most borough employees will receive a cost-of-living salary adjustment.

Council passed the budget after hearing complaints from the members of the Midway Community Center because the borough no longer planned to pay rent to use one room in the facility.

That declaration through a letter the council sent last month angered the community center members, who lobbied for the borough to reinstate the $110 monthly payments to help with maintenance and some utility bills.

The three members in attendance Monday night said the community center has worked to help the borough and they found the letter somewhat offensive.

Council President Edward Salvini said the borough never intended to offend them and added that the borough pays for the insurance on the building and is responsible for mowing the grass.

After the discussion, the council decided to add the annual $1,320 contribution to the community center for rent using money in the general fund.

Several members on the council also promised to attend a meeting with the community center members to discuss any other problems.

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