The Alton Board of Selectmen voted on Nov. 12 to withdraw $1,250,000 from the town's unassigned fund balance to reduce a projected jump in the 2026 town-only tax rate.

Town staff told the board the proposed 2026 town rate would be roughly 14.05 mills, up from the current 12.98, in large part because a one-time FEMA payment of about $741,000 that had bolstered 2024 revenues is not available this year and because voters approved several warrant articles that add to town expenditures. Staff said the town's general fund balance stands at about $5,112,234 and noted the Department of Revenue Administration recommends an unassigned fund balance in the 8–10% range for bond-rating purposes.

After deliberation about fiscal prudence and the fact that a 2026 revaluation is expected to lower future rates, selectmen agreed a $1–1.25 million buy-down would balance short-term taxpayer relief and reserve-level concerns. The board approved the motion to commit $1,250,000 to the buy-down by voice vote.

The meeting also included a series of budget votes. Notable approvals included:

- DPW: $2,107,862 (full-time wages and equipment maintenance were primary drivers).
- Benefits & insurance: $2,841,118 (benefits) and $363,420 (insurance).
- Solid waste: $394,641; recycling revolving fund: $111,201.
- Ambulance revolving fund: $245,002.
- Library fund: $172,178.
- IT department: $210,412.
- Grounds and maintenance: $140,093.

Several items were discussed but not approved for purchase this year: the board deferred electronic poll books for voter check-in and recommended staff pursue alternative funding or revisit the purchase next year.

What happens next: staff will incorporate the buy-down and approved budgets into warrant materials and preparatory documents for deliberative session and town meeting. The board signaled it may recommend pausing or delaying some CIP (capital improvement plan) warrant articles to lessen the tax impact if alternatives are available.