In a virtual meeting Monday afternoon that lasted about six minutes, Mars Borough Council approved a $1.139 million budget for 2021.

Councilwoman Julie Schultheis was the sole dissenting voice on the approval. A phone call made to Schultheis after the meeting regarding her vote wasn't immediately returned.

The virtual meeting included a council member calling from the hospital following a COVID-19 diagnosis.

With no changes from the preliminary budget approved Dec. 14, the borough is looking at $1,139,920.37 in revenue and $1,139,890.56 in expenses, leaving a planned surplus of $29.81.

The largest revenue generator is expected to be the borough water system, which is budgeted for $543,478 in revenues.

Anticipated tax revenues are budgeted for $331,000. Property rentals and royalties are expected to generate about $28,995.

General government expenditures are budgeted for about $309,770. Of this, building repair and maintenance and Dutilh property loan payments are budgeted for about $52,772 and $32,256, respectively.

The borough police department is slated to cost about $183,334, with almost $120,272 going toward full, part and overtime wages.

The public works department has anticipated expenditures amounting to $290,030 for roads and streets.

Other public works expenditures, including the borough water system, are budgeted for $257,407. Parks and recreation is slated for $38,218.

Councilman Brad Price was absent during the proceedings, but said after the meeting that he was in favor of the budget.

After approving the budget, council voted to keep next year's meetings on the first and third Mondays of the month.

The budget is on the borough's website for public review.