Residents Raise Budget Concerns, Transparency Questions at Montgomery Township Committee Meeting

Nicholas Mistretta

MONTGOMERY — Residents voiced a range of concerns and perspectives during the public comment portion of the Montgomery Township Committee’s April 16 meeting, with topics including the proposed 2026 municipal budget, communication practices, and community services.

One resident, Raj Koltur, presented a petition signed by more than 500 residents addressing the proposed 2026 budget. Speaking on behalf of community members, Koltur outlined several recommendations aimed at mitigating rising property taxes and utility costs.

Among the proposals were a 10 percent reduction in discretionary municipal spending, a temporary hiring freeze on open positions, and a one-year pause on new sewer capital projects. Koltur said these measures could collectively yield several million dollars in savings. He also suggested evaluating alternative sewer billing models and exploring shared services with neighboring municipalities to improve efficiency. Koltur stated that residents are seeking approximately $3 million in cost reductions to help ease financial pressures amid increasing living expenses. 

Another resident, Nancy Castelino, raised concerns regarding access to township communication platforms. Castelino stated that she was blocked from commenting on a township-affiliated Facebook page after asking questions about state grant funding. She questioned the basis for the action, the policies governing public engagement on municipal platforms, and whether such actions could raise legal concerns related to free speech. Township officials clarified during the exchange that comment policies are governed by established procedures and indicated the matter would be reviewed. 

Public comment also included expressions of appreciation for township-supported services. Sid Saran, president of the Montgomery Emergency Medical Services (EMS), thanked the township for its financial support, noting that the volunteer organization contributes tens of thousands of service hours annually. Saran emphasized the operational demands of maintaining emergency response services, including equipment, training, and rising costs, while highlighting that services are provided to residents at no charge.

Additional remarks from residents reflected both support for municipal efforts and broader civic concerns. Oliver Tenney commended the committee’s budget presentation and inquired about potential discussions related to ranked-choice voting initiatives. Another resident, Sudhakar Govindavajhala, spoke about the financial strain many taxpayers face and urged the committee to exercise restraint in managing costs.

Skillman resident Devra Keenan encouraged residents to engage not only with municipal government but also with school board and county meetings, noting their influence on overall tax rates. She also expressed appreciation for township staff, including public works and wastewater treatment personnel, and called attention to facility conditions affecting employees.

Photo Credit: Nicholas Mistretta/headlinenewsmontgomery.com