# Finance Committee 10-7-2026

The Finance Committee’s October 7, 2026 meeting, with participation from the Select Board and School Committee, reviewed FY2026 year-end finances and FY2027–FY2029 projections, the structural deficit, and budget scenarios tied to the proposed override. The CFO estimated FY2026 free cash at about $14.52 million; with roughly $2.14 million in general stabilization, reserves totaled about $16.86 million, or 12.1% of net available revenues—below the 15–20% range discussed as desirable. The FY2028 budget was described as having an approximately $9.75 million gap under the presented assumptions. Members discussed a working assumption of $3 million in free-cash use and an override amount of $6.5 million, while noting that failure of the override could require further reductions, including in staffing and capital spending. No formal vote was taken on free-cash use; the committee leaned toward waiting until after the November 4 override vote to decide. It planned to vote on warrant articles at its next meeting.

The discussion also covered capital and debt costs associated with the Killam and Recal school projects, including conservatively budgeted interest payments, and possible deferral of capital items if the override fails. FY2028 community priorities included about $1.7 million in identified additions, among them staffing and operating costs for new school buildings, police overtime, and restoration of a second police cruiser. The school district outlined possible budget reductions and revenue measures, but made no recommendations or procurement decisions at this meeting. The town manager described holding 11.5 municipal positions vacant to reduce potential unemployment costs; the schools said most vacancies must be filled to maintain student services. No contract awards, vendor selections, bid approvals, or other procurement approvals were identified.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Construction & Infrastructure, Education
**Topics:** Physical Infrastructure
**Published:** October 07, 2026

### Sources
- [Finance Committee 10-7-2026](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y4B3w1QrVEw) - RCTV Studios