Cohen emphasized the budget’s reliance on state aid, noting that a shortfall could impact the school department, which accounts for two-thirds of discretionary spending. The recommended increase in funding for Chelmsford Public Schools is $2.5 million, or 3.3%, totaling $78.15 million. This figure is lower than previously discussed amounts at tri-board meetings. The Nashoba Tech school district’s assessment is set to rise by 6.5%, or $263,000, due to changes in enrollment and state funding formulas.

The budget proposal outlined by Cohen includes a 3.2% increase in general government funding, amounting to $1.25 million. Notably, the debt service will rise due to a new fire station project expected to go out to bid soon. Additional budgetary allocations include $51,000 for two state elections and an increase in the legal budget due to ongoing land use litigation. Solid waste and recycling contract costs are indexed to inflation, resulting in an increase of $147,000.

Cohen also highlighted the unmet financial needs in public safety and public works departments and the escalating benefits and insurance costs, primarily due to changes in health insurance coverage and rising premiums. Health insurance costs have increased, raising concerns about future budgetary impacts.

The town’s financial landscape was further detailed with nearly a thousand retirees and around 700 active employees. Property taxes, projected to cover over 76% of the operating budget, remain the primary revenue source. A 5% increase in local receipts, particularly from motor vehicle excise tax, is expected to contribute an estimated $631,000. Chapter 70 education funding is projected to increase by 5%, resulting in approximately $770,000 for the upcoming fiscal year.

The committee also discussed the capital plan, presented by Finance Director John Zuza, which includes 20 recommended projects totaling over $6.42 million. Key projects involve public works and school facilities, accounting for 27% and 40% of the capital plan, respectively. Nine projects, totaling just over $3 million, were listed as unfunded, raising concerns about future financial needs.

Specific projects within the capital plan include the HVAC system replacement at the Adams Library, costing $850,000, and a $70,000 investment for ADA ramp replacement at the McKay Library. Public safety projects include the first phase of funding for the police station’s HVAC system replacement and addressing fire department vehicle needs.

In public works, a $425,000 allocation is proposed for roadway improvements, and two heavy-duty trucks identified for replacement are critical for snow and ice removal operations. The finance committee debated vehicle corrosion issues and preventative maintenance measures, highlighting differences in vehicle upkeep across regions.

The meeting also addressed budget allocations for enterprise funds, including the sewer enterprise fund operating budget set at $5.7 million and a $1.77 million funding level for the stormwater management enterprise fund. The committee reviewed a drainage project aimed at addressing flooding issues and the forum ice rink budget managed by a third-party company.

A discussion point emerged around Article 21, seeking $60,000 from cemetery improvement funds for maintenance projects across six cemeteries. Article 22 proposed $150,000 for property valuation services, necessary for compliance with state regulations. The community preservation fund was addressed, with requests for administrative expenses and reserves for open space, historic preservation, and community housing initiatives.