# Finance Meeting - 09/16/2026

The Town of Bridgewater, MA Finance Committee met on September 16, 2026, to discuss several budgetary and procurement-related matters. Key procurement discussions included the approval of a $49,896 contractual buyout payment related to the fire chief's contract, funded through the employee liability fund. The committee also approved supplemental budget appropriations: $96,650 from the stabilization fund for the library to maintain state certification and $30,000 from the one-time stabilization fund to cover increased legal costs, including public records and employment-related legal matters. The committee debated the appropriate funding sources for these appropriations, considering impacts on the town's bond rating and financial policies. Additionally, the committee reviewed the rules and eligibility for the SAVE Volunteer Service Program, particularly regarding municipal employee participation and conflict of interest considerations, with plans to continue discussion at a future meeting. The meeting concluded with a discussion on the town's budget resolution and free cash policy, emphasizing the importance of accurate revenue forecasting and fiscal prudence to support ongoing and future town operations and capital projects.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Professional Services, Education
**Topics:** Grants & Funding, Regulatory Compliance
**Published:** September 16, 2026

### Sources
- [Finance Meeting - 09/16/2026](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vyvYwMEdJvI) - Town of Bridgewater, MA