Town Meeting members approved a total operating budget of $67,642,444 for Fiscal Year 2027, navigating a complex fiscal landscape marked by rising school costs and a systemic municipal deficit. Interim Town Manager Michelle Leary presented the budget, which includes a General Fund of $59,000,090, a Sewer Enterprise Fund of $2,682,866, and a Water Enterprise Fund of $5,959,488.

Leary noted that while the municipal side of the budget saw a 2.9% increase, the school department required a 4.83% increase. The total town increase is 2.9% and this includes shared and mandatory costs while the total schools increase is 4.83%, Leary said. This follows months of debate regarding a "funding chasm" in the schools, which had previously warned of potential position cuts if significant increases were not met. The school budget was supported by the Select Board and Advisory Committee despite earlier concerns regarding "outcomes-based" justifications for spending.

The budget's approval ensures continued funding for key departments as the town enters a period of heavy capital investment. The appropriation relies on a strategy of taxation, state aid, and local receipts to balance the books for the coming year.

Motion: To approve the FY27 Operating Budget as presented.

Vote: Passed Unanimously