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Orange forum reviews budget, multi-year audit and proposed Highway Fund use
Summary
At a Town of Orange budget forum, officials presented an updated budget and a multi-year audit in progress, and discussed using about $87,500 of the $174,000 Highway Fund to offset taxes while debating one-time versus recurring uses.
Steve Simpson called the Town of Orange budget forum to order at 6:00 p.m. on April 20 and reviewed meeting procedures. Town treasurer/finance matters were presented by Carmella Tucker, who guided residents through updated budget booklets and fund balances that are unaudited as of Dec. 31.
Tucker said the Highway Fund holds approximately $174,000 and staff proposed using roughly $87,500 to reduce the tax rate. She said the Highway Fund represents an accumulated surplus and described a goal to retain about two months of operating reserves. Board members and residents debated whether to apply the funds to one-time capital needs or recurring operating expenses; concerns were raised about the sustainability of using reserves to offset taxes.
Tucker also reported that the town engaged Batchelder Associates PC to conduct a multi-year audit covering 2022–2025 after prior audits were not completed. She told the forum that substantial work has been done to bring records up to date and that audit costs should decline in future years.
During public comment, several residents questioned year-over-year budget increases, staffing and temporary-help costs, the need for contracted IT services, and rising health insurance expenses (noted by staff as an increase of about $12,000). Attendees also flagged discrepancies in delinquent tax revenue that are under review with NEMRC.
No formal vote was taken on using Highway Fund balances; the board stated a fiscal policy preference not to budget anticipated FEMA reimbursements until funds are received. The forum concluded with a commitment from town officials to maintain budget discipline and to continue refining the proposed appropriation plan.
