Attleboro's election budget reduces costs by utilizing volunteers and efficient processes

Attleboro City Council has made significant strides in budget management during its recent meeting on May 22, 2025, with a focus on reducing election-related costs while maintaining operational efficiency. The proposed budget for fiscal year 2026 reflects a decrease of approximately $37,000 compared to the previous year, primarily due to strategic staffing and the use of volunteers.

The city will conduct two municipal elections this year, which typically incurs higher costs. However, the election office has successfully cut expenses by utilizing capable clerks and volunteers from local organizations, including the Council on Aging and Attleboro Enterprises. This approach has allowed the city to save thousands of dollars by minimizing the need for additional poll workers, resulting in the lowest salaries election account in seven years.

In addition to personnel savings, the budget includes necessary expenditures for ballot printing and memory card coding, which are essential for the upcoming elections. The council also discussed the potential impact of the Save Act, which could increase voter registrations and necessitate additional resources for processing documentation.

Other budget considerations included the planning department's funding, which remains level except for contractual increases. The council is preparing for a full property reevaluation in fiscal year 2027, with plans to fund this through free cash rather than annual budget allocations.

Overall, the council's proactive measures in budget management demonstrate a commitment to fiscal responsibility while ensuring that essential services and election processes remain effective and efficient. As the city moves forward, these strategies are expected to yield continued savings and improved service delivery for Attleboro residents.