The Johnstown Town Council approved a $120,000 amendment to the town’s 2026 budget Monday night to provide initial support for the newly established Johnstown Downtown Development Authority.
Resolution 2026-28 amends the town’s 2026 General Fund budget and makes supplemental appropriations for expenses above the amount originally budgeted. The amendment increases General Fund expenditures by $120,000, bringing the total 2026 General Fund expenditure budget to $43,090,440.
The funding is intended to support the Downtown Development Authority, often referred to as the DDA, as it begins operations following the successful passage of April 2026 election measures. According to town agenda materials, the DDA was created to support continued investment and revitalization within Johnstown’s downtown district.
Town documents state that newly formed downtown development authorities often take several years before meaningful Tax Increment Financing revenues materialize. In the meantime, the town’s support is intended to help the DDA begin implementing its mission and priorities.
The funding is also expected to help the DDA absorb existing downtown programming, events and resources currently managed by the Johnstown Downtown Development Association. Town materials say the goal is to maintain continuity for downtown businesses and stakeholders during the transition.
The money may also help cover administrative and operational costs, including support for an Executive Director position to provide leadership, coordination and implementation of the DDA’s strategic initiatives during its early years.
The budget amendment was presented by Finance Director Kristyn Unrein. Town staff recommended approval of the resolution, saying the amendment would improve the accuracy of the town’s financial information and ensure compliance with state law.
The agenda communication connected the item to the town’s strategic goals of organizational excellence, public trust and a healthy, resilient economy. It also specifically cited investment in a vibrant and interconnected downtown, promoting Johnstown as a premier destination for business, and cultivating regional partnerships.
The resolution followed a public hearing held June 15, where interested taxpayers were given the opportunity to file or register objections to the amended budget.
Resolution 2026-28 became effective immediately upon adoption.
Sources: Johnstown Town Council agenda materials for June 15, 2026, and Resolution 2026-28 amending the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget.
