Concern over first Mastic Beach budget

Residents Monday night questioned whether Mastic Beach's first budget will cover the young village's expenses, and village officials responded that the concern is warranted.

The $3.8 million budget -- the subject of a hearing -- would cost the owner of an average home about $575 per year in property taxes and garbage collection fees.

Some residents asked whether enough money was appropriated for improved code enforcement, a service village Mayor Paul Breschard promised when he led a drive to incorporate the village last fall. Breschard responded that village officials believe the budget will cover services, but added that the spending plan is a work in progress.

"It's hard to come up with the budget because there's no history," he said.

The village is required by state law to approve a budget by May 1.

Village trustees will further discuss the budget on April 25 and vote on it shortly thereafter, officials said.