Troy issues proposed 2026 budget

TROY, N.Y. (NEWS10) — Troy Mayor Carmella Mantello issued a proposed 2026 budget for the city on Friday night. The $122 million plan aims to ensure fiscal discipline and modernized, long-term stability for Troy.

The proposed budget features a push to preserve the city’s credit standing while remaining below the state tax cap with a tax rate expansion of 2.29%. The 2026 plan also includes bolstered funding for Troy Police and the Troy Fire Department, with suggested upgrades to their facilities, technology, and training resources.

“Like every municipality across New York, Troy continues to face mounting cost pressures driven by rising healthcare premiums, pensions, equipment and materials,” Mayor Mantello stated. “But through careful planning, collaboration, and accountability, we are holding the line on spending, enhancing city services, and protecting Troy’s fiscal health – while continuing to invest in the infrastructure, parks, public safety, and neighborhoods that make our city thrive.”

The Mayor’s plan introduces a garbage fee reduction of $25 per unit, bringing the cost to $229 for residents, down from $254. The proposed budget contains amenity investments such as renovations to numerous parks and trails, infrastructure repairs like the Congress and Ferry Street Corridor Project, and a multitude of quality of life improvements, including lead service line replacements, daily neighborhood cleanups by a litter response team, and the establishment of a dedicated, citywide pothole response crew.

The relocation of Troy City Hall to its new home at Proctors Theatre on Fourth Street is also encompassed in the proposed 2026 budget. Troy City Council President Sue Steele and Councilmembers Katie Spain-McLaren and Aaron Vera issued a joint statement on the Mayor’s issued plan, saying “Review of Troy’s annual spending plan is the council’s most important responsibilities each year. To avoid a repeat of last year’s rushed timeline and chaotic budget cycle review timeline established by the administration, the council’s Democratic caucus will work to establish an open, transparent process that allows for full public involvement and engagement from department heads, the public, and journalists who cover the city.”

“Our 2026 budget is about smart investment, modernization, and results,” Mantello said. “From reducing fees and rebuilding infrastructure to expanding public safety and delivering cleaner neighborhoods, we are strengthening Troy’s foundation for generations to come. This is a budget that reflects who we are – resilient, forward-looking, and deeply proud of our city.”

Steele, Spain-McLaren, and Vera announced that the city council will hold a special meeting to formally acknowledge the budget proposal on October 15.