BET Budget Committee, October 13, 2026

At the October 13, 2026, BET Budget Committee meeting, members approved the Fire Department’s use of an $81,200 FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant for shuttle-operations training for career and eligible volunteer firefighters. The federal share is $73,818.18, with a $7,381.82 town match to be absorbed within the department’s current budget; the motion passed unanimously. The committee also unanimously approved use of a $34,903 Public Health Preparedness grant toward a public health position’s salary; the position is currently vacant and the department expects to begin interviewing applicants. No vendor award or new contract was approved. Members discussed the DPW waste-disposal contract renewal and noted tipping-fee revenue of about $2.675 million against costs of about $5.3 million, but took no procurement action on it.

The committee approved the second-read FY2028 budget guidelines, 3–0 with one abstention. The guidelines ask departments to identify three meaningful operational changes or cost-saving opportunities, review fees, improve alignment of budgets with actual spending, examine capital plans, and consider shared services. Members also discussed uncertainty in healthcare and energy costs, potential utility-rate increases, capital spending and debt, and the need to assess IT systems and opportunities for technology-related efficiencies. A preliminary fiscal-year-to-date report was reviewed; no additional procurement votes or awards were identified.