Select Board 8-4-2026

The Select Board meeting of Reading, held on August 4, 2026, included discussions on several procurement and budget-related topics. Key procurement-related items included an update on the downtown streetscape project, which is partially funded by a $2.6 million MassWorks grant along with other town funds, with no borrowing required. The board also discussed the town's override budget proposal of $6.5 million to address a structural deficit, considering phased funding options to mitigate tax increases. The finance team presented scenarios for phased implementation, highlighting the use of free cash and potential hiring freezes to manage costs. The board expressed preferences for a phased approach to reduce immediate tax impacts. Additionally, the meeting covered the installation of new benches funded by prior appropriations and volunteer support, and the ongoing Wilmington substation capital project with a $26 million budget. The board also approved a traffic amendment for a new stop sign and discussed goals related to technology and AI, including assessing vendor contracts for potential cost savings. No contract awards or new RFPs were announced, but the meeting included important budget allocation and capital improvement project updates. Motions were passed to approve the traffic amendment and meeting minutes, and an executive session was scheduled for collective bargaining strategy discussions.