PHILADELPHIA, Pa. (Diya TV) — Montgomery County has approved a $1.2 billion budget for 2026, marking a rare moment of bipartisan unity in one of Pennsylvania’s most politically influential counties. County Commissioner Neil Makhija led the process and secured unanimous approval from the Board of Commissioners, making it the first bipartisan county budget in nearly a decade.
County officials said the plan reflects a practical and data-driven approach to local government at a time when political gridlock often dominates state and national debates. The budget focuses on core priorities, including housing, public health, infrastructure, parks, and workforce development.
The Montgomery County 2026 budget stands out for its broad support across party lines. Makhija, who chairs the Board of Commissioners, guided negotiations and emphasized cooperation throughout the process. Officials said the final vote showed that shared local goals can overcome partisan differences.
Montgomery County sits just outside Philadelphia and plays a key role in Pennsylvania politics. Bipartisan agreements of this scale have become increasingly uncommon in recent years. County leaders said the budget proves that consensus remains possible when leaders focus on residents’ needs. The approved plan totals $1.2 billion and sets spending priorities for the year ahead. It aims to balance fiscal responsibility with targeted investments that address long-standing community challenges.
Housing remains a major focus of the 2026 county budget. The plan allocates $5.3 million for housing and homelessness programs. County officials said the funding will support residents facing housing insecurity and help expand local services. Public health and safety also receive increased attention. The budget includes $7.2 million for public health and safety initiatives. Leaders said these investments will strengthen prevention efforts and improve access to essential services.
Officials described the spending as a response to local data and community feedback. They said the county continues to face rising demand for health and human services, especially among vulnerable populations.
Infrastructure spending makes up one of the largest portions of the budget. The county will invest $35 million in infrastructure projects across Montgomery County. That funding will support repairs and upgrades to 131 bridges and 75 miles of roads. County leaders said safe roads and bridges remain critical for residents, businesses, and emergency services. The investment aims to reduce long-term repair costs and improve daily travel throughout the county.
Officials added that infrastructure improvements also support economic growth. Reliable transportation networks help attract employers and improve access to jobs and services.
The 2026 budget includes $16.6 million for county parks and historic sites. Montgomery County operates a large park system that serves residents across urban, suburban, and rural areas. County officials said the funding will help maintain trails, preserve historic properties, and improve public access to outdoor spaces. Parks play a key role in quality of life and public health, especially for families and older residents.
Leaders said continued investment ensures these spaces remain safe, accessible, and well-maintained for future generations.
Workforce development also appears in the budget plan. The county will dedicate $1.5 million to workforce programs and improvements to county operations. Officials said the funding will help train workers and improve efficiency across departments. Makhija oversees about 3,000 county employees who work in infrastructure, public safety, human services, and the criminal justice system. County leaders said investing in staff and operations strengthens service delivery and long-term performance.
Before entering elected office, Makhija taught election law at the University of Pennsylvania Law School. He also represented Pennsylvania counties in litigation against pharmaceutical companies over the opioid crisis. He also remains President of the South Asian Impact Foundation (née Indian American Impact), a group that works towards electing more Indian American and South Asian American political candidates.
