MARS — In a public budget meeting Monday night, Mars Borough Council passed a preliminary 2021 budget that leaves a surplus of $29.81.

Council is anticipating revenues to total about $1,139,920. Costs are estimated at about $1,139,890.

There is no tax increase at this time. Water rates were adjusted to $14.50 for the monthly base meter fee and $8 per thousand gallons usage.

Council briefly discussed hiring Andy Schultheis, husband of Councilwoman Julie Schultheis, from a part-time to full-time township employee for the water department.Mike Fleming, council president, said while he expected to have a “positive discussion” about the situation, it's one that needs to be addressed by the entire board.The preliminary budget included an additional full-time water department employee for planning purposes.

Council is expecting to see about $27,000 in revenues through a second round of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES)Act reimbursements, to be paid to the borough for expenses incurred because of the pandemic.Fleming said if the money is distributed this year, the borough could pay off what remains on a loan for an excavator. This would eliminate a corresponding debt service in 2021.

Brad Price, council member, said he talked to the Butler County assessment office to discuss possible tax breaks on the borough's school and church properties. According to Price, the assessor's office has agreed to exempt them from property tax.Council expects to adopt the final budget at 3 p.m. Dec. 28 via a virtual meeting.