Townsend Council proposes $380,000 override for North Middlesex school budget

A proposed budget override of approximately $380,000 for the North Middlesex Regional School District (NMRSD) is set to be voted on April 28, 2025. This decision comes amid ongoing discussions about the district's financial needs and the complexities surrounding town budget allocations.

During a recent meeting, committee members expressed confusion over the budget process, particularly following a budget summit held on March 1. At that summit, a statement was made regarding a potential override of $1.3 million, which was later clarified as unrealistic. Instead, a motion was introduced at a town meeting to allocate $200,000 from the town's free cash to support the school budget, a move that has precedent in previous town meetings.

Committee member Kim provided clarity on the situation, emphasizing that the school budget will be funded through a combination of $200,000 from free cash and the remainder from the operating budget, thus avoiding the need for a larger override. Despite the town's decision to pursue a $625,000 override that includes schools, Kim reassured that the school’s funding does not depend on this override.

As the April 28 vote approaches, the committee is working to ensure that community members understand the specifics of the school budget and the implications of the proposed override. The upcoming budget meeting will further clarify the financial landscape for the NMRSD, as the school prepares for the next fiscal year.