On Aug. 12 the board approved Resolution 27-2025 to adjust appropriations and increase funding for the town's Hardship Utility Grant (HUG) program.

Why it matters: The HUG program provides one-time credits (up to $300) to eligible residents with difficulty paying municipal utility bills. Midyear demand had reduced the available HUG allocation below desired levels; the transfer restores program capacity without changing the general-fund year-end balance.

Finance Director and Treasurer Nick Redavid reported that the fiscal-year 2025 HUG budget was $12,000 (funding roughly 40 grants). As of July 31, the program had awarded 33 grants totaling $9,900, leaving 17.5% of the original budget and about 42% of the fiscal year remaining. Redavid said the town administrator identified $19,500 in available general-fund wages and salaries (IT wages and salaries line, due to a midyear IT hire) to increase HUG funding by $19,500. The appropriation increases the HUG budget to $31,500 and is expected to fund at least an additional 65 grants, bringing total available grants for the year to about 105, roughly matching 2024 award levels.

Trustees voted in favor of the resolution. Redavid said the appropriation will have a net-zero impact on the general fund year-end estimated fund balance. The board gave direction to continue monitoring demand and report on program usage.