A central theme of the meeting was the presentation of the fiscal year 2027 budget, which proposed a 6.58% increase in the operating budget. This increase, largely attributed to structural changes such as the transfer of over a million dollars from the school budget to the town’s budget, highlighted the town’s reliance on tax levies and conservative state aid projections. The educational budget accounted for nearly 57% of the total operating budget, with public safety following at approximately 10%. The proposal also included a 2% cost-of-living adjustment for non-union employees and an 8.02% rise in the town’s retirement assessment.

Debt management was another focus, with a projected 8.42% increase in debt due to previously approved projects and anticipated initiatives like the fire station renovation. The board acknowledged the potential impact of these debt levels on future budgets, stressing the need for long-term fiscal responsibility. Discussions also addressed the challenges of managing high costs associated with health insurance, retirement, and general operating expenses, particularly in relation to the school budget.

Affordable housing initiatives, specifically the renovation of the Cranberry Bog House, were also at the forefront of discussions. The project aims to address broader housing challenges by creating affordable housing units, preserving historic structures, and maintaining access to open spaces. The anticipated renovation costs for the bog house were projected at $2 million, with the town needing to address a financial gap of around $1 million. The board expressed optimism about leveraging not-for-profit organizations and Community Preservation Act (CPA) funds to cover the shortfall, though concerns were raised about maintaining the project’s affordable housing objectives.

The potential introduction of a high-deductible health plan alongside Health Savings Accounts (HSAs) was discussed as a means to manage escalating health insurance premiums. The board considered employer contributions to HSAs, proposing a $1,000 contribution for family plans and $500 for individual plans. The importance of educating employees about the implications of high deductibles was emphasized, with the board agreeing on the need for mandatory educational sessions.

The meeting also addressed the proposed charter for a Department of Public Works (DPW) building committee, aimed at preparing for a design funding request at the annual town meeting. The total project cost was revised to $15 million, with the committee focusing on presenting a funding request for design by 2027. Discussions about committee composition highlighted the need for balanced representation, with suggestions to include non-voting members from essential town boards.

In terms of policy, the board approved a revised “committee creation and appointment policy,” allowing 18-year-olds to participate as non-voting members and clarifying the role of non-residents on committees.