A plain-English guide to understanding Penn Yan's budget — where the money comes from and where it goes.
The Village of Penn Yan's annual budget determines how much residents pay in property taxes, what services are maintained or cut, and what capital investments are made in roads, water, and infrastructure. The budget is a public document — every resident has the right to review it, attend hearings, and comment before it is adopted. Understanding how to read it is the first step to civic participation.
The total amount approved for spending in each department or category.
Money coming in: property taxes, state aid, fees, fund balance.
Savings carried over from prior years — often used to reduce taxes.
Reserved funds for unexpected expenses during the year.
Annual payments on money the village has borrowed (bonds).
Spending on major infrastructure projects — roads, equipment, facilities.
The Village of Penn Yan budget is divided into funds — each fund tracks a specific area of operations. The General Fund covers most village services. The Electric Fund tracks the municipal utility. The Water Fund covers the water system. The Sewer Fund covers sewage treatment. Each fund has its own revenues and expenses, and must be balanced independently.
September–October
Department heads submit budget requests to the village administrator.
October–November
A tentative budget is prepared and made available for public review.
November
A public hearing must be held before the budget is adopted. Residents may comment.
November–December
The Village Board votes to adopt the final budget. The new fiscal year begins June 1.
Source: NYS Village Law; Village of Penn Yan annual budget documents. Verified March 2026.