Select Board reviews audit, reports Cortina Fund balance and schedules pre-town meeting

Select Board members spent substantial time on Dec. 17 reviewing draft audit materials and budget worksheets ahead of the January town meeting. The finance committee and the town's auditor reported that town finances are generally in good shape, and the board received details on restricted and carryover funds that affect the 2026 budget.

Board members discussed the Cortina Fund, which the finance committee reported has a combined balance of over $200,000 as of June 30, and additional revenue received since that date. The water and sewer fund balance was noted as nearly $1.5 million during the audit review, a figure the finance committee said affects capacity for capital work.

The board discussed how reductions in grant revenue and other income categories drive increases in the amount to be raised by taxes; one committee member noted a preliminary increase of roughly 19% for the amount to be raised by taxes (before any depreciation or bond adjustments). Members also reviewed the timing of bond payments on the new public safety building and the Center bond, information the committee said will affect future tax bills.

Board members set the select board meeting for Jan. 14 at 5:30 p.m. with the pretown meeting to follow at 7 p.m. The clerk reminded the board the last day to file petitions for articles to appear on the ballot is Jan. 16, and the town report warning must be ready for the printer by Jan. 22.

Clarifying items that remain: the board asked the auditor to review the grand-total summary sheet to resolve a calculation discrepancy flagged by committee members. The auditor and finance staff will return with any corrections before the board presents budgets to voters on Jan. 14.