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Selectboard reviews higher highway budget driven by wages, equipment and maintenance costs
Summary
Staff presented Article 6 (highway fund $1.6M), citing higher wages, insurance and equipment costs as drivers of the increase; the board requested updated reserve figures and schedules for equipment purchases before town meeting.
Town staff reviewed the proposed highway fund budget, explaining increases reflect higher highway crew wages (to remain competitive), rising insurance and retirement contributions, higher equipment maintenance costs and a larger annual contribution to an equipment reserve. Staff cited recent procurement examples and quotes, including a 2025 Peterbilt truck priced near $313,000 and other equipment costs that have pushed maintenance and replacement budgets higher.
Board members asked for an updated listing of reserve balances and amortization schedules for major purchases; staff committed to providing updated reserve figures and a breakdown of the truck/body payments before the next meeting and town meeting so voters and board members can assess timing and funding sources.
