Budget & Finance Committee Meeting - April 21, 2026

The Town of Bridgewater, MA Budget & Finance Committee met on April 21, 2026, to discuss several procurement and budget-related matters. Key topics included acceptance of a $7,500 grant from the Department of Energy Resources for green community initiatives, with discussion on the adequacy of funds for electric vehicle batteries. The committee reviewed and recommended approval of the Bridgewater Police Relief Association Collective Bargaining Agreement, noting a modest 1.5% budget increase for police salaries and the inclusion of this contract in the FY27 budget. They also approved a $135,000 appropriation transfer from the wage adjustment line to fund settled contracts. The FY27 annual town budget was discussed extensively, highlighting difficult decisions including position eliminations, salary adjustments, and minimal increases in expenses. The committee considered potential cost savings by outsourcing IT services to third-party providers, with input from the police chief on IT demands. Additional discussions covered transportation costs for vocational schools and staffing challenges in various departments. Motions were passed to continue several budget items for further review and to recommend approval of key contracts and appropriations to the council.