Hopkinton council adopts financial and tax resolutions for 2025–26 after low-turnout referendum

The Hopkinton Town Council voted to adopt the financial resolution and the tax resolution for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025, after councilors said the items had been presented to residents via multiple outreach channels and a low-turnout referendum confirmed the measures.

The measures were approved by voice vote with Councilman James, Councilor Davis, Councilor Roy and Councilor Burns recorded in favor. The council discussed recent referendum turnout and communication efforts preceding the vote.

Why it matters: The council—s adoption of the resolutions finalizes the town—s budget framework for FY 2025–26 and sets tax rates and financial authorities that the town will operate under for the coming year. Councilors and residents used the floor to debate whether the town—s current public-notification methods are sufficient when few voters turn out for referenda.

Council discussion and public reaction Several councilors and residents described the referendum turnout as low. A town official reported the referendum roll: turnout and results were posted, and outreach included the town website, newspaper notices, robocalls and e-mails. One resident, Joe Morrow, urged that "town residents should have the right to vote. It's their choice," noting that the town had made efforts to notify voters but that many still did not participate.

Council members and staff exchanged views about whether the cost and efficacy of budget referenda merit reconsideration. One councilor suggested reinstating or forming a communications committee or a voter-engagement committee; others noted state or charter constraints requiring a public vote for financial resolutions.

Contingency and turnout details A town official said the annual contingency fund for the year was $5,000 and that the publicly posted remaining balance had been about $650 before small subsequent expenditures (for example, flowers) affected that figure. Councilors discussed whether next-cycle outreach could include clearer explanations of items on the ballot to reduce confusion.

Votes at a glance - Financial resolution and tax resolution for fiscal year beginning July 1, 2025 — motion passed; recorded votes: James: yes; Davis: yes; Roy: yes; Burns: yes. - Acceptance of resignation from the Economic Development Commission (see separate entry) — motion passed (see that article for details).

Next steps Councilors asked staff to explore improved outreach options, including reinstating a communications committee, mailing to residents and using the town website and social media more proactively. No charter change or specific timeline for such outreach was adopted at the meeting.