The Acton Finance Committee convened on August 26, 2025, to discuss the town's budgetary impacts stemming from projected demographic changes. The meeting featured a detailed presentation by Evan Andres, who outlined how shifts in Acton's population could influence financial planning and resource allocation.

Andres began by highlighting the current tax revenue structure, noting that property taxes account for 92% of the town's income. He emphasized that education represents the largest expenditure, consuming 66% of the budget. The average property tax bill in Acton is approximately $13,500, translating to about $4,500 per resident for general services. He pointed out that the cost of education is significant, averaging $22,000 per student annually.

Over the past decade, the town's budget has grown at an average annual rate of 2.73%, while inflation has risen by 3.6%, indicating a decrease in the budget's purchasing power. Additionally, home values in Acton have increased by an average of 6.1% per year, suggesting a growing reliance on property taxes for revenue.

Andres proposed the development of a 55-plus community in Acton, citing a projected increase of nearly 2,280 residents aged 65 and older by 2029. He argued that this demographic shift presents an opportunity for residential development, which could enhance tax revenue and provide housing options for seniors looking to downsize. He referenced the Enclave in Boxborough as a model, where homes range from $800,000 to $1.2 million, and occupancy rates are notably high.

During the discussion, committee members raised questions about the potential financial implications of such developments, including the balance of housing types and the impact on school expenses. Andres acknowledged the need for careful consideration of these factors, particularly the risk of creating backfill in the housing market.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the importance of adapting to demographic changes to ensure sustainable financial health for the town. The committee expressed interest in further exploring the feasibility of the proposed community and its potential benefits for both the town and its residents.