Board of Finance Budget Public Hearing 3/2/2026

The Town of Southington held a Board of Finance public hearing on March 2, 2026, to discuss the proposed 2026-2027 budget. Key procurement-related topics included the impact of a recent property revaluation that increased the grand list by 46.4%, shifting tax burdens primarily onto modest homeowners. The proposed budget requests a 9.5% tax increase to cover a $13.2 million rise in expenses, including an $8.2 million increase for the Board of Education's $130 million budget, which reflects level services with some new personnel requests. Health insurance costs and minimum wage increases were noted as significant cost drivers. The town manager highlighted minimal staffing additions outside public safety and efforts to refinance debt to reduce interest costs without extending maturities. The budget process includes multiple workshops and public engagement before the Board of Finance makes a recommendation to the Town Council, which will vote on the final budget and mill rate.