Budget & Finance Committee - 9/8/2026

The Town of Bridgewater, MA Budget & Finance Committee met on September 8, 2026, to discuss several budgetary and procurement-related items. Key procurement discussions included a request for $181,000 from the Community Preservation Committee (CPC) for the restoration of an antique fire apparatus, the Samoquin hand pumper, and an additional $58,000 for restoring and digitizing historical fire department photographs. The restoration contract was noted as a sole source due to the specialized nature of the work, with a vendor from Pennsylvania selected. The committee also reviewed parking fine rate increases intended to boost general fund revenue, with some discussion on enforcement and allocation of funds. Additionally, the committee discussed capital projects, including vehicle purchases and budget rollovers, emphasizing the need for updated capital plans and tracking of expenditures. There was also mention of indirect cost allocations for enterprise funds and host community agreements related to cannabis businesses. The committee agreed to begin early budget planning for FY28 and considered training for council members on municipal financial processes. Motions to recommend the CPC funding were passed unanimously.