New Castle's report for financial activity so far this year shows signs of economic rebound for the town.

Sheila Doughtie, the town comptroller, gave an overview to the Town Board at its work session Tuesday, going over key facts. Officially, the presentation was about the town's fiscal shape in the second quarter, but in reality it covers things from January to June, Doughtie said.

Among the good financial news for the town:

• The general fund had lower personnel expenses due to retirements
• "A big reduction" in employee benefits because of a prepaid retirement entry. This also kept a rise in health insurance costs from going higher.
• Lower FICA payments
• More building permits
• Increase in revenue from tax levy
• More money made on bank interest. "We are seeing some interest in our accounts," Doughtie said.

Supervisor Barbara Gerrard was cautiously optimistic with her response. She said that while things were still tough, they could be worse.

Doughtie, in an interview, gave a positive summary of the town's shape.

"We're looking pretty good in the second quarter," she said.

Nevertheless, it is too early for the town to discuss what will happen for its 2011 budget, according to Doughtie.

"We haven't started the budget process yet," she said.