Kingston approves $61.1 million FY26 operating budget; police staffing amendment fails

Kingston voters on April 26 approved a $61,065,495 FY26 general fund operating budget that funds schools, public safety, public works and other town services.

The Finance Committee presented the plan, saying the budget reflects a roughly 5% increase over FY25 and is funded primarily by property taxes (about 76% of revenues). The package calls for $17.17 million for the Silver Lake Regional School District assessment and $15.60 million for other education costs. Officials estimated the budget represents about a $500 annual tax increase on a home assessed at $665,000 and signaled a potential Proposition 2½ override may be needed for FY27.

During debate a floor amendment sought to add $575,000 to the Police Department line to fund two patrol officers and one sergeant. Supporters said the money would address staffing shortfalls driven by rising call volume; opponents warned the cost would require either budget cuts elsewhere or an override and that hiring and training could take 18–24 months. The amendment failed. Separately, a motion to increase the Historical Commission budget by $750 to restore it to its prior level passed.

Moderator Sean O’Brien and town administrators explained that Town Meeting votes set appropriations and that any budget unbalance would be handled later when the tax rate is set, either through an override or by finding cuts. The amended budget carried with minimal opposition.

What happens next: The operating totals will be included in the FY26 budget process and reflected when the tax rate is set in the fall; town officials warned residents to expect continuing budget pressures and possible override planning for FY27.