Canonsburg council is expected to vote Monday on a preliminary 2010 borough budget that includes no tax increase.

The $3,960,275 proposed budget was balanced by keeping cuts instituted this year, such as eliminating the borough's summer public works help, eliminating the use of the street sweeper, increasing foot patrols by police, reducing blacktopping streets and alleys and reducing the number of lifeguards at the pool in Town Park.

The police department cut an additional $25,000 for its 2010 budget, including a reduction in overtime and radio, computer and other equipment expenses. All of the reductions eliminated the approximately $180,000 deficit council faced when budget talks began, Manager Terry Hazlett said.

The millage rate will stand at 36.33 mills for the third year in a row. The rate includes 30 mills for general service, 3 mills for the fire department, 2 mills for roads and 1.33 mills for debt service. One mill is worth about $43,000.

Vice President George Coleman Jr. said council needs to develop contingency plans because the borough may have to raise taxes in the future. The only other option is to furlough employees.

"We were blessed in being able to come up with a balanced budget without a tax increase, but that won't last forever," he said.

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