Board of Estimate & Taxation

The City of Norwalk Connecticut Board of Estimate & Taxation held a regular meeting on February 10, 2025, focusing primarily on a special capital appropriation request for the acquisition of property at 6 Butler Street. The acquisition, originally planned to be funded by ARPA funds, was delayed and is now proposed to be funded through bond funds as part of the capital budget, with a negotiated purchase price of $1.1 million. The board discussed the financial implications, including the swapping of ARPA funds to paving projects and the need for formal approval of the capital appropriation. The resolution to approve the appropriation passed with a 5-2 vote. Additionally, the meeting included a detailed presentation of the FY 2026 recommended operating budget, highlighting challenges such as a recent real estate revaluation, pension cost increases, and the impact of state and federal funding uncertainties. The budget proposal includes a 2.5% city budget increase and a recommended 4% increase for the Board of Education, with strategies to mitigate tax impacts. The board also discussed ongoing union contract negotiations and the timing of budget cap setting and capital budget reviews. No new contracts or vendor selections were reported, but the meeting addressed significant budgetary and capital funding decisions affecting future procurement and city operations.