Norwalk staff present FY26 budget recommending 3.3% total increase; board of ed request trimmed

Norwalk staff presented the recommended FY2026 operating budget to the Board of Estimate and Taxation on Feb. 10, outlining a plan that would hold total spending growth to 3.3 while recommending a 4% increase for the Board of Education and a 2.5% increase for city operations.

"This is my first complete budget cycle that I've been through," Jared said as he opened the presentation, laying out revenue and spending pressures including the 2023 real‑estate revaluation, state motor‑vehicle tax reform, pension and OPEB cost increases, and unresolved collective‑bargaining agreements. Jared said the revaluation and related phase‑in remain a short‑term pressure and staff will use a mix of mitigation measures including bond premium and limited use of…