News Flash • East Hampton Town Adopts 2026 Budget Supporting
The East Hampton Town Board voted Thursday night to adopt the Town’s 2026 Budget, which strengthens the services residents rely on every day and supports families across all hamlets. The budget focuses on public safety, environmental protection, and the programs that help households meet rising costs while keeping the Town on steady financial ground.
Supervisor Kathee Burke-Gonzalez said the intent throughout the budget process was to make sure residents feel the benefit of their local government in practical and meaningful ways.
“People want to know that their neighborhoods are safe, that their children have opportunities to grow, that they can access help when they need it, and that the Town is managing their tax dollars with care,” Supervisor Burke-Gonzalez said. “This budget reflects those priorities and stays focused on what truly improves life for residents.”
Over 63% of the budget supports the Town workforce. Nearly all core services depend on the people who deliver them, and the 2026 Budget ensures that these employees can continue doing their work effectively. We are also meeting new needs by adding seven new positions across critical departments: two Harbormasters to strengthen Marine Patrol and safeguard our waters, three new Police Officers to expand public safety, and two Groundskeepers to care for our parks and public spaces. These additions represent nearly half a million dollars in salaries, and their value is measured in safer neighborhoods, stronger protection on the water, and well-kept parks and recreation areas for all to enjoy.
“Every service that residents rely on begins with the people who deliver it. Supporting our workforce is how we ensure that roads get cleared, emergencies get answered, parks stay clean, and families have the help they need. This budget recognizes that commitment and strengthens it,” Supervisor Burke-Gonzalez said.
Support for children and families continues with the expansion of the School Resource Officer program. Officers will provide classroom instruction, mentorship, and close coordination with school staff so that students receive guidance and support throughout the school year. The Town also maintains strong funding for early childhood education and after school programs through the Eleanor Whitmore Early Childhood Center and Project MOST, including continued support for child care services in Montauk. Funding for lifeguards and beach personnel keeps residents and visitors safe and continues East Hampton’s respected youth training programs that give young people valuable skills and pathways to employment.
“Families are at the heart of this community. When we invest in childcare, after school programs, beach safety, and opportunities for young people, we are investing in the future of East Hampton. These are the programs that shape lives, support parents, and keep our community strong,” Supervisor Burke-Gonzalez said.
The budget increases support for food programs at a time when many families are feeling financial pressure. The Montauk Community Nutrition Center and the Springs Food Pantry will receive additional assistance, and the Town will continue to provide funding for the Montauk Food Pantry and free space and utilities to the East Hampton Food Pantry. Investments in mental health services, recovery programs, crisis response, and domestic violence support ensure that residents can access essential services without barriers. Funding for English language instruction through Ruta 27 Programa de Inglés, Inc. helps immigrant neighbors find opportunity and stability.
Quality of life for residents is strengthened through continued support for the YMCA RECenter, LTV, and the Montauk Playhouse. The YMCA offers recreation, fitness, swim instruction, health education, and financial assistance so that every resident, regardless of age or income, can access programs that support physical and emotional wellbeing. LTV ensures government transparency, emergency information, and community programming for households across East Hampton. This year’s budget also provides $240,000 to assist the Montauk Playhouse with its first year of operation, helping ensure that this long-awaited community space begins serving the public with strong, stable support. The Town newsletter, launched this past summer, will continue to reach every home with clear updates on services, projects, and upcoming events.
The budget also protects East Hampton’s environment. A sustainable landscaping initiative will help residents reduce pesticide use, conserve water, and create healthier landscapes that protect groundwater and support pollinators. By giving homeowners the tools to make environmentally responsible choices, the Town is protecting the character and ecological health of East Hampton for the long term.
“Protecting our environment is not separate from supporting our residents. Clean water, healthy landscapes, and resilient natural resources are essential to daily life here. This budget helps safeguard the natural beauty and health of East Hampton for the next generation,” Supervisor Burke-Gonzalez said.
This budget totals $110,671,552. For residents outside the incorporated villages, the budget results in a modest tax rate increase equal to about eighty-four dollars for the year for a home valued at one million two hundred fifty thousand dollars. The Town used a portion of fund balance to limit the impact on households while protecting reserves for the future. East Hampton Town continues to hold a Aaa credit rating from Moody’s Investors Service.
“This budget reflects what matters to our community,” Supervisor Burke-Gonzalez said. “Strong public safety. Support for families. Protection of our environment. Reliable services that residents count on. And a responsible approach to managing costs. I am proud of what this budget delivers for the people of East Hampton.”
