City budget faces $250K shortfall amid rising costs for council on aging program

Worcester County's Finance Committee is grappling with a significant budget shortfall as discussions from the March 12, 2025, meeting reveal a projected $250,000 gap between anticipated revenue and budget requests. The committee is facing tough decisions, particularly regarding staffing and program funding.

The most substantial budget request comes from the Council on Aging, which seeks an increase of $85,000. This request is largely attributed to a pilot program aimed at enhancing services for seniors, including improved meal offerings that have successfully increased attendance. However, this increase has also led to higher food costs, complicating the budget landscape.

Committee members acknowledged that most departments have kept their expense increases modest, with many requests hovering around 1% to 2%. This leaves little room for flexibility in the budget, prompting discussions about potential cuts to positions if necessary. The committee is considering various strategies, including the possibility of funding certain positions part-time to alleviate some of the financial pressure.

Looking ahead, the committee plans to conduct a line-by-line review of the budget on March 26, where they will have the opportunity to make more detailed adjustments. The goal is to create a balanced budget that addresses the community's needs while navigating the financial constraints.

As the committee prepares for this critical review, the implications of their decisions will be felt across the county, particularly among senior services and other essential programs. The upcoming discussions will be pivotal in determining how effectively the county can meet its budgetary challenges while continuing to serve its residents.