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MURSD budget shortfall forces talk of multi‑million‑dollar override, district warns
Summary
Minuteman Regional School District officials told Upton and neighboring officials that mandated cost increases — notably a 23% spike in health insurance and roughly $4.9 million in out‑of‑district special education placements — make an operating override likely, with an estimated local levy need of about $4.1 million.
Director-level and school district officials told the Upton Select Board and Finance Committee on March 24 that the Minuteman Regional School District’s proposed FY27 budget will require substantial local funding to avoid program cuts.
Dr. Maureen Cohen, speaking for the district, said the budget is “needs‑based” and shaped largely by legal obligations and post‑pandemic increases in student needs. Finance Director Jay Byer said mandated cost increases are driving the request, including a 23 percent rise in health insurance premiums and about $4.9 million in out‑of‑district special‑education placements for 22 high‑needs students who require services through age 22.
Finance Director Kenny Costa told board members both towns are already at the state’s 82.5 percent Target Share, meaning state aid will not cover the new costs. Costa estimated a total levy need of roughly $4.1 million, including a permanent override of just under $2.6 million and temporary debt exclusions for school and DPW projects. He said the estimate translates to an annual household tax impact that varies with property value; the draft materials put a range from about $750 to $2,100 depending on assessed value.
Finance Committee Chair Paul Flaherty and other committee members pressed the district on distinguishing needs‑based expenses from discretionary items; presenters said they had already removed discretionary items and that additional special education, school psychology and English learner staffing are required to meet legal obligations.
The two boards agreed to continue working with the district and its finance staff as the budget process advances. No formal vote on overrides or levy amounts occurred at the meeting; board members and the Finance Committee asked for clear communications to taxpayers before any ballot question is finalized.
Next steps: the district and town finance staff will continue to refine numbers and present details at upcoming budget meetings ahead of the May Annual Town Meeting and any potential override ballot question.
