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Council narrowly recommends operating budget after split vote
Summary
The council voted 5–1 to recommend the operating budget for 2026 (initial abstention changed to a no), with Councilor Strand urging a unified recommendation to avoid a default and encourage voter approval.
On Jan. 21 the Bedford Town Council recorded a recommendation on Article 7, the operating budget, approving it by a 5–1 tally after an initial abstention by Councilor Phil Greazzo was changed to a no vote. Chairwoman Lori Radke moved the recommendation and the council carried it with a recorded roll call.
Councilor Michael Strand urged colleagues to present a unified recommendation, arguing the council’s support could positively influence voters and help avoid a budget default. He said the council’s recent fiscal work—bargaining agreements and a lean operating budget—supported recommending passage. Councilor Greazzo explained his vote against recommending spending measures was a consistency position rather than opposition to particular departments. The motion to recommend the operating budget passed 5–1. The recommendation will be recorded on the ballot as required by the Charter.
