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Templeton Select Board puts two override questions on May ballot after weeks of debate
Summary
After extensive debate and public comment on school and municipal services funding, the Town of Templeton Select Board voted to place two general override questions — $2 million and $4 million — on the May 18, 2026 ballot and directed staff to prepare budget scenarios tied to each outcome.
The Town of Templeton Select Board voted April 6 to place two general proposition 2' override questions on the May 18, 2026 ballot, one for $2 million and a second for $4 million, after a lengthy public discussion about school funding and town services.
Supporters of an override urged the board to let voters decide on additional revenue to shore up schools, fire and police services, and other municipal needs. "I think that it's important to let the town decide because it's an important decision," said Jess Smith, a first-grade teacher who spoke during the citizen input period. Several other parents and residents made similar appeals, describing potential cuts to classroom staffing and emergency services.
Board members and staff debated the size and scope of any override and how to present it to voters. The board discussed multiple options (including $2 million, $3 million and $4 million figures) and whether to break questions into department-level allocations or present them as general funds. Town Administrator James said staff will prepare three versions of the budget for town meeting and outreach materials: a no-override budget and budgets keyed to the $2 million and $4 million questions.
At the meeting the board approved a motion to place both the $2 million and $4 million general override questions on the ballot and to include instructions for voters explaining how the questions operate if both pass. The board directed staff to prepare voter information that explains what each amount would fund and what would happen if the ballot questions fail.
Supporters said an override would stabilize services and give the town time to pursue longer-term changes to spending and revenue; opponents warned of the burden on homeowners. The board and staff discussed likely impacts on an average tax bill, with staff distributing an assessor's worksheet that illustrated sample increases for each amount and stressing the need for clear messaging.
Next steps: the board asked the administrator to draft motions and a voters' guide for the town clerk, and to finalize language with town counsel and planning consultants. If the board finalizes the motions, the town clerk will put the questions on the May 18 ballot per statutory deadlines.
