For the second year in a row, taxpayers in the Town of Union will not see a property tax increase.

The town's 2010 preliminary spending plan is $17.5 million dollars.

That's down $360,000 from the current year's budget.

The town board held a public hearing on the 2010 proposed budget Wednesday.

Supervisor John Bernardo attributes improved efficiency in Union's overall operation as one factor in avoiding a tax hike.

Most of the savings came from the town's utilities.

The town committed to a broader contract with Integris Energy Partners at a very low rate.

The move saved the town about $100,000.

The town also cut labor costs because some administrators are retiring this year.

Their work will be picked up by current employees.