Gloucester Town Council supports supplemental tax levy for school funding in 2026

The Town of Glocester, Rhode Island, held a significant meeting on June 12, 2025, focusing on critical funding issues for the local school department. The session began with a motion to reconvene open discussions, following an executive session where no votes were taken. The council proceeded to address the pressing financial needs of the school department for the fiscal year 2026.

A key agenda item was the proposed resolution to support legislation that would allow the town to exceed its tax levy cap. The council discussed an amendment to the resolution, adjusting the maximum levy increase from 2.7% to 3%. This change aims to provide additional funding necessary to prevent potential layoffs of teachers and significant reductions in student services, which could adversely affect student achievement and the overall educational environment.

The council highlighted that despite a previously approved budget referendum allowing a 4% increase, the school department still faces a substantial budget shortfall. This situation has prompted concerns about maintaining essential services and staffing levels. The proposed legislation, House Bill 2025-H6409, seeks to authorize a supplemental tax levy through a voter referendum, which would enable the town to raise additional funds to support the school department.

The council unanimously supported the resolution, emphasizing the importance of securing the necessary financial resources to sustain educational services. The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, reflecting the council's commitment to addressing the fiscal challenges ahead. The next steps will involve monitoring the progress of the proposed legislation and its implications for the town's budget and educational services.