Finance Commission Meeting | March 9, 2026

The City of Watertown Finance Commission meeting on March 9, 2026, focused on several key budget and procurement issues. The commission discussed reallocating $17,170 from the economic development fund to cover a personnel expense, emphasizing the importance of funding economic development roles to attract investment. They also approved an ordinance amendment to repeal a service charge on tax-exempt residences, aligning with recent state Supreme Court rulings on valid municipal fees. A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the airport runway project, where the commission considered using $60,000 from a reserved fund balance to secure entry into a federal grant program that could cover 90% of the runway reconstruction costs. This project aims to extend the runway to 5,000 feet, enhancing the city's ability to attract corporate aviation business. The meeting concluded with a review of an insurance loss runs report and adjournment.