Annual Town Meeting members approved Article 5A, the town’s primary $98.3 million general operating budget for fiscal year 2027. This budget, described as a balanced budget, follows a year of fiscal belt-tightening after a failed override attempt last year. Select Board Clerk Fernando Guitart reminded the hall that the town had not passed an override in 37 years and had consistently lived within its means.

Significant discussion occurred regarding several new positions. A proposed amendment by resident Colleen Brier to cut $115,000 for a new Town Engineer position failed after DPW Director Sheila Sgarzi argued that an in-house engineer would save money. Sgarzi noted that the town recently spent nearly $90,000 on an outside consultant for just two months of work that an in-house staffer could have performed. Other discussion points included the need for an Assistant Town Accountant for payroll redundancy and a new administrative position in Facilities to manage 3,100 work orders across 63 buildings.

The budget also includes funding for school technology. Superintendent Danielle Klingaman emphasized the loss of a director of instructional technology, stating the district is currently heading into MCAS season without this pivotal person.

Motion 1 (General Fund): To appropriate $98,335,253.

Vote: Passed 337-23