Kingston Mayor Proposes $5K Raise in 2026 Budget

Kingston Mayor Steve Noble has proposed a $63.3 million budget for 2026, which includes a $5,000 raise for himself. This budget marks an increase of nearly $3.5 million from the previous year and would raise the city tax levy by 5.745%. If approved, Noble's salary would increase to $84,000 in base pay, totaling $133,039 with benefits. Last year, the Common Council rejected a similar pay raise request from Noble.

The budget also includes a phased plan to increase the salaries of Common Council members from $10,000 to $15,000 over four years. Noble emphasized that these raises reflect the time and effort city lawmakers dedicate to serving their constituents. "Our Common Council is one of the least paid in the Hudson Valley," Noble stated, expressing hope that higher salaries might encourage a more diverse group of residents to serve.

Personnel costs, including rising health insurance premiums, are a significant driver of the budget increase. The budget also proposes a new 3% bed tax on hotel, motel, and short-term rental stays, aiming to generate additional revenue without impacting local residents. This tax is intended to offset rising costs and support initiatives like affordable housing.

The proposed budget would see public safety as the largest expenditure, accounting for 44% of total spending. The Kingston Police Department and the city's ambulance service are set to receive increased funding. Noble's budget presentation highlighted the city's efforts to maintain stability and affordability amid rising costs and potential federal cuts.