The finance department’s presentation underscored the objective of a balanced budget, the pursuit of additional revenue streams, and debt reduction. The council grappled with a decrease in anticipated revenue, particularly due to the cessation of shared services and a lack of further funds from the local finance recovery program, which had provided support during the pandemic. The budget also highlighted the distribution of tax dollars, with the largest share going to schools (55%), followed by county taxes (19%), and municipal operations (24%).

A public hearing allowed residents to voice their concerns, with one individual questioning the decrease in the assessment of taxes and expressing dissatisfaction with the budget presentation process. Council members emphasized that the public hearing was confined to the municipal budget and that questions about school or county budgets were beyond the scope of the meeting.

Capital improvement projects were also a focal point of the budget discussion, with ongoing and planned projects for the senior center, playgrounds, and street improvements. Mandatory capital expenditures, such as body cameras for the police department, were considered alongside ‘wish list’ items that would benefit the community. The adoption of resolution number 2024-6.7, which passed with a roll call vote, formalized the approval of the 2024 budget.

The council deliberated on the financial impact of shared services, noting the decreased salary allocation for street and road repairs due to collaboration with other towns. Additionally, the increased costs of cybersecurity compliance with state requirements and insurance policies were acknowledged as a pressing necessity. The impact of the pilot program on taxpayers, and the allocation of funds for debt payment, capital projects, and equipment purchases were also key budgetary issues.

During the meeting, the allocation of funds and the impact on taxes were discussed, with one member citing the significant increase in school taxes over a few years. Efforts to keep municipal taxes low were highlighted, with one member noting the modest $40 increase in municipal taxes over four years. The need for infrastructure improvements was addressed, with decisions made to prioritize paving, curbing, and drainage over the assessment and removal of disconnected sidewalks.

Other business included the adoption of a resolution authorizing the application to amend the affordable housing consent order, the introduction of an ordinance amending municipal fees for overnight parking permits, and the introduction of an ordinance adopting a redevelopment plan for specific blocks and lots, referred to the planning board for review.

The council also touched upon the community’s successful events and initiatives, such as the Town and River cleanup day, the town-wide garage sale, and the S Park Fest. Upcoming events such as the 911 Candlelight ceremony and walk were mentioned, alongside a reminder to residents regarding the use of recycle coach and reverse 911 Rave services. Additionally, the council expressed appreciation for the budget committee and department heads for their role in the budget process.

The meeting concluded with the announcement of upcoming meeting dates and a note of personal congratulations to the mayor for becoming a grandparent.