by Lisa Schauer

Driven by a new one-percent municipal sales tax this fiscal year, the Town of Bath budget has been revised for the seventh time, with one quarter’s earnings remaining.

In a public meeting held on Tuesday, May 19, Council voted to submit a budget revision to the state auditor to include an additional $133,500 in sales tax revenue captured since the last revision, published on March 25. So far, the sales tax has generated $458,500 since January 1, according to the budget revision.

Revenue from the town’s hotel-motel occupancy tax also increased by $25,000.

Business & Occupancy tax revenue increased by $20,000.

Total revenue increase in the revised budget was $186,500, which also included a $6,500 increase in wine and liquor tax revenue.

Revenue from parking violations decreased by $15,000.

Total expenses rose commensurately by $186,500, with the bulk, an increase of $155,500, being spent on contributions and transfers to other funds.

Cemeteries received an additional $21,600, while streets and highways were cut by the same amount. Another $6,000 was spent on street construction.

Parks and Recreation and Travel Berkeley Springs each received an additional $12,500.

Town Council voted to lower property taxes by ten percent on April 21.

Citizen Awards

In other business, Bath Town Council presented three citizen awards, recognizing the contributions of outstanding volunteers.

Pete Brown, chairman of the town’s streetscapes and rail trail committees, was recognized for his leadership and expertise in managing projects including new street lights, ADA ramps, North Berkeley Rail Trail remediation and construction for the town.

Joy Butts, known as “the guardian of Green Street,” was recognized for her diligence in  keeping the neighborhood neat and tidy.

Community volunteer Ellen Lachewitz received a community award for her efforts to improve Biser Street and surrounding neighborhoods.

Police Department recognized

Town of Bath Police Department was recognized by Morgan
County Partnership as their 2026 Partner of the Year in a ceremony held at Morgan County Senior Center, Mayor Greg Schene announced in the public meeting.

“The Town of Bath Police Department represents the very best of public service. Their commitment to protecting our community while building positive relationships with residents and local businesses has made a lasting impact. This recognition is well deserved, and we are incredibly proud of the department and officers who serve our town,” said Schene in a written statement.

Special recognition was given to Chief Ron Gardner and Patrol Officer Stangle for their leadership, dedication, and service to the community.

The officers also received a $100 gift certificate from Charlotte’s Café.