Township of Bristol
Overview
Bristol Township approved a $76.3 million 2026 budget with no tax increase, backed by reserves exceeding $52 million and a 10.4% year-over-year operating increase, earning a Starbridge budget trend score of 88 — where Starbridge analyzes adopted budgets, leadership changes, capital programs, and fiscal indicators to score cities on budget direction and spending readiness (0-100). The township is investing in public safety technology, infrastructure replacement, and a $2 million state-funded industrial park redevelopment.
Budget Analysis
The 2026 budget totals $76.3 million, with an operating budget of $60.5 million and capital projects at $15.8 million. The operating budget grew 10.4% over FY2024, driven by higher General Fund revenue. The township holds the millage rate at 24.98 mills and starts 2026 with a fund balance exceeding $52 million. A new red-light camera revenue stream is projected to net $2.8 million in 2026, with a 1-mill Fire Fund increase supporting public safety operations.
Capital Projects
The $15.8 million capital program includes a $2 million Randall Avenue Bridge replacement, storm sewer improvements, and Croydon Park improvements. Public safety investments include police technology and vehicle upgrades, body and in-car cameras, license-plate readers, and fire company equipment upgrades. A new senior center and fire station are planned. The township secured $2 million in state funds for industrial park redevelopment.
Procurement Outlook
Bristol Township is positioned to invest in public safety technology — body cameras, in-car cameras, license-plate readers, and patrol vehicles — alongside HVAC systems and fire equipment, with $52 million in reserves providing strong discretionary capacity. The $15.8 million capital program and $2.8 million in new red-light camera revenue create procurement opportunities for vendors aligned to public safety and infrastructure priorities with clear near-term ROI.