Wendell Town Manager presents $58.5M balanced budget with no property tax increase

The Wendell Board Meeting on May 12, 2025, focused primarily on the presentation of the town's budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Town Manager and Budget Officer, who is also an Eagle Scout and ARO member, introduced the budget, marking his seventh presentation to the board. He emphasized the importance of transparency in the budget process, which is governed by state statute.

The proposed budget totals $58,586,493 and maintains a flat property tax rate of 42 cents per hundred dollars of valuation, with only nominal increases in fees for field rentals and development reviews. Notably, there are no increases in other common fees such as stormwater or solid waste. The budget includes a general obligation borrowing of $22.5 million, consistent with a bond referendum previously approved by the public.

The town manager highlighted the new fund structures introduced in this year's budget, including capital funds for both general and utility purposes, a debt service fund, and a stormwater utility fund. He noted that the general fund reserve balance exceeds the required 40% policy, significantly above the local government commission's recommendation of 8%.

The budget document will be submitted to the Government Finance Officers Association (GFOA) for review, with the town having received recognition for six consecutive years for its transparent budgeting practices. The manager expressed confidence that the new layout and fund structures would enhance public understanding and engagement with the budget.

Overall, the meeting underscored Wendell's commitment to fiscal responsibility and transparency, setting the stage for further discussions and public input as the budget process continues.