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Board of Finance reviews proposed 2026–27 budget; projects $2,095 tax hit for average homeowner
Summary
The Deep River Board of Finance reviewed a proposed 4% increase to the 2026–27 budget (2.3% excluding a firehouse bond) and recommended $195,490 in reductions; board members said revaluation has shifted tax burdens toward residential properties. No final budget vote was taken.
The Deep River Board of Finance reviewed the proposed fiscal year 2026–27 budget at a workshop held April 22 at the Richard H Smith Town Hall, reporting a 4% overall spending increase and projected tax impacts for homeowners.
Tim Puglielli, a member of the Board of Finance, led the budget overview and presented the townwide figures, saying the proposal represents a 4% increase overall and 2.3% when the firehouse bond is excluded. He said the combined effect of the revaluation, the bond and other increases would raise taxes by about $2,095 for an owner of a home assessed at $325,500.
Board members, including First Selectman Carol Jones and Finance Director Paula Ferland, expressed concerns that a recent property revaluation has shifted part of the tax burden from commercial properties to residents and discussed options to reduce that burden. The board reported recommended reductions to the proposed budget totaling $195,490.
The workshop record shows no formal votes on the budget itself. Carmela Balducci moved to adjourn the meeting; Michael Weglarz seconded the motion, which passed 5–0. The board did not adopt or finalize the proposed budget during the session.
The Board of Finance will need to identify whether additional reductions or alternative revenue measures are required before a final vote; the transcript does not specify next procedural steps or a date for final action.
