Hooksett Council Reviews Proposed $145K Budget With Key Welfare Reductions

During the recent Hooksett Town Council Budget Review meeting held on September 3, 2025, council members discussed the proposed budget, which amounts to $145,866. This figure represents a decrease of approximately 5.68% compared to the previous year. A significant reduction was noted in the welfare line, which has been adjusted from $68,000 to $58,000, reflecting a $10,000 cut.

The budget continues to allocate $14,000 to the Community Action Program (CAP), which provides essential heating resources and assistance with electric utility bills for residents. This program is seen as a vital service for the community, especially as the demand for such resources remains high.

Council members acknowledged the efforts of the budget presenter, Patricia, who has worked diligently to create a budget that meets the needs of her office while being mindful of the financial constraints posed by a default budget. The discussions also highlighted the importance of maintaining a careful watch on potential increases for the upcoming year.

A key point of clarification arose regarding employee compensation. The current budget does not include pay increases for non-contracted employees, as negotiations for union and non-union contracts are ongoing. These potential increases will be addressed in a future Warren article, ensuring that the council can revisit these matters as negotiations progress.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to balancing community needs with fiscal responsibility. As the budget moves forward, the council will continue to monitor its implications and prepare for upcoming discussions on employee compensation and other financial matters.