Representative Town Meeting (Budget Hearing #1) - 4/6/2026

The Representative Town Meeting (RTM) of FairTV Government held a budget hearing on April 6, 2026, to review and discuss the proposed fiscal year 2027 operating budget. The meeting included detailed presentations from various town departments including the Board of Education, Registrars of Voters, Community and Economic Development, Planning and Zoning, Community Services, Water Pollution Control Utility, Engineering, Department of Public Works, Solid Waste and Recycling, and the First Selectman's Office. Key procurement-related discussions focused on budget allocations for personnel salaries and benefits, contractual obligations, transportation contracts, infrastructure projects, and maintenance. The Board of Education budget was highlighted with a total request of approximately $243.9 million, reflecting a 4.68% increase, with significant attention to salary and benefits, transportation contract increases, and special education costs. The Water Pollution Control Utility budget showed a 6.5% expenditure increase due to sludge management and compliance costs. The meeting also addressed contract terms for transportation services, potential grant funding for infrastructure, and the importance of communication roles within the First Selectman's Office. Several motions and budget adjustments were discussed, including reductions made by the Board of Finance and strategies to absorb these cuts without impacting educational quality. The meeting concluded with plans for continued budget discussions in subsequent sessions.