Acton Finance Committee urges no vote on $35M DPW building debt exclusion

In a recent meeting, the Acton Finance Committee voiced strong opposition to Question 1 on the upcoming April 29 town ballot, which proposes a debt exclusion for the construction of a new Department of Public Works (DPW) building. The committee unanimously urged residents to vote against the measure, citing significant financial concerns and potential long-term impacts on taxpayers.

Greg Charbo, a member of both the Finance Committee and the Public Works Facility Building Committee, highlighted that the estimated cost for the new DPW facility is approximately $35.2 million. If approved, this debt exclusion could increase the tax rate by about $275 for the average single-family home over the next 30 years, or around $160 for condo owners. Charbo emphasized the uncertainty surrounding future bond rates, which could further complicate the financial implications of the project.

One of the committee's primary concerns is the reliance on the capital stabilization fund, which is proposed to contribute $1.55 million to the project. Charbo warned that using the entire fund for this single project could hinder the town's ability to address other necessary capital needs in the future, potentially leading to additional debt exclusions down the line.

The committee also raised alarms about the adequacy of the project's contingency plans. With only 5.2% of the total cost set aside for contingencies, Charbo pointed out that rising construction costs—exacerbated by ongoing tariffs on steel and aluminum—could leave the town short on funds, forcing it to pause the project or seek additional funding later.

While some proponents argue that the $1.2 million already spent on design justifies moving forward, Charbo cautioned against the "sunk cost fallacy," urging voters to consider the project's merits independently of past expenditures.

Residents will have the opportunity to weigh in on this significant financial decision during the town election on April 29 and again at the town meeting starting May 5. The Finance Committee encourages thorough research and consideration of both sides before casting votes on this crucial issue.