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Board of Finance reviews FY2026–27 budget, notes overall reduction and WPCA changes
Summary
At a March 3 special meeting, the Board of Finance reviewed proposed FY2026–27 budgets, noting a net reduction overall while discussing a $50,000 increase in WPCA administrative services, a revenue‑offset $50,000 rise in WPCA support, and major grant totals including a $1,676,000 education grant.
The Board of Finance met March 3, 2026, at the Richard H. Smith Town Hall to review proposed budgets for fiscal 2026–27, noting an overall reduction to the town budget while discussing specific line‑item changes and grant totals. Chairperson Tim Puglielli called the meeting to order at 6:35 PM.
Finance staff reviewed the grants and revenue lines, highlighting a proposed $50,000 increase to WPCA administrative services to fund part‑time help and a scheduled reduction in WPCA debt reimbursement from $150,000 this year to $100,000 next year. The finance overview also listed license and permit adjustments (planning and zoning permits reduced to $5,000; town clerk fees proposed at $38,000) and flagged miscellaneous revenue that includes a surplus from Deep River Elementary School. The packet recorded an education grant of $1,676,000 and a special education grant of $17,000.
Town Hall operations drew discussion on rising sewer fees and maintenance costs. Elevator maintenance was increased by $500, and the Town Hall operations section showed a total net increase of about $6,000. In the Selectman’s Office review, HR support was reduced to $5,000, a $1,000 grant writer line was included, the Ethics Commission line increased to $200, and overall pre‑salary expenses were estimated to be down roughly $5,000 from last year.
The finance review noted a $50,000 increase in WPCA financial support that finance staff said would be offset by related revenue increases. Other line items called out in the finance and general government sections included an increase in fire radio monitoring costs and a transfer‑to‑capital item that will be finalized through the capital budget review process.
On employee benefits, the board noted higher costs for insurance and bonds and a rise in pension spending; medical insurance costs were listed as decreased. The FY2025–26 review showed property tax collections at 96.8 percent and identified computer support as a current overrun; the board also flagged an outstanding contract review and discussed establishing a public donation account for animal services funds.
No formal budget approvals were recorded at the meeting. Under other business, the board announced next week’s meeting would be canceled. Kathryn Russell moved to adjourn; Carmela Balducci seconded. The motion passed 4–0 and the meeting adjourned at 8:19 PM.
The Board of Finance will continue budget work at future meetings as staff prepares revised line items and follow‑up contract reviews.
