Meriden council adopts amended FY 2026-27 operating budget after debate over school funding

The Meriden City Council voted to adopt the city manager's amended fiscal year 2026-27 operating budget following a night of detailed department-by-department adjustments and a single recorded dissent. The finance director summarized a revised spending plan of roughly $242 million and described it as "still a 3.8% increase," while noting several targeted reductions and new state revenue.

Why it matters: Council action sets municipal spending for the year and the mill rate that funds city services, including local schools, public safety and capital projects. The debate centered on how much extra funding to provide the Board of Education amid a tight overall budget.

Finance director presentation and key changes The city's finance director said the revised operating budget reflects a set of reductions and revenue updates after the state finalized its budget. He cited reductions including $20,330 from nonunion salary accounts, $32,000 in IT capital nonrecurring, and $20,540 from part-time seasonal bulky-waste staff; he also said parking-ticket revenue was increased by $20,000 and that the city gained roughly $1.52 million in supplemental Pequot revenue from the state. The director said those adjustments, combined with a minor change in projected tax collection rates, reduced the mill rate to 29.99.

Board of Education funding debate Councilors spent most of the floor time discussing how much additional support to provide the Board of Education. Councilor [last-name withheld when not spoken on record] acknowledged that state aid improved the city's position but said councilors faced a choice about whether to provide an extra $1,000,000 or a smaller $431,000 adjustment that would make the district whole on the immediate shortfall. One councilor said, "I will not be voting for 1000000," explaining concern for taxpayers facing a revaluation and higher bills.

Supporters framed the increase as an investment in students. One councilor who represents local youth programs noted prior grants and said extra funds can boost tutoring and after-school services; another thanked students, teachers and the city delegation for advocacy that raised state support.

Amendment and final vote Council adopted a motion to amend the manager's recommended budget to include a set of the finance director's adjustments. The amendment passed with one dissent; the council then adopted the amended operating budget by voice vote, with one councilor opposed.

What the council did not decide tonight The council did not take additional, separate votes on program-level allocations beyond the amended totals. The finance director said some line items will continue to be adjusted administratively and that the council could revisit targeted tax-abatement programs for seniors and veterans later.

Next steps The council adjourned after taking action on the operating budget. Implementation and departmental spending will be managed by the city manager's office and the finance department as fiscal year 2026-27 begins.