Bethel residents have approved a budget for the coming year. During yesterday's second referendum, resident voted in favor of the slightly lower municipal spending plan by about 100 votes. The $29.53 million represents a 3-percent increase in spending, but will result in a decrease in the tax rate by .03-percent. The capital budget was reduced by more than $1 million, eliminating the purchase of a truck and creation of a turf field. That part of the budget was approved by about 400 votes. The school spending was approved on the first vote.