Summary

Whitman Reports $1.36 Million Budget Gap

WhitmanJan 27, 20262 min read

At a glance

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The preliminary FY27 budget shows an approximately $1.36 million deficit, driven largely by the WHRSD assessment, retirement costs, and health insurance. The Select Board said an override may be needed after final budget figures are available.

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Select Board

Topics discussed

Budget & TaxPublic SafetyEnvironmental

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What this means

Whitman is beginning its FY27 budget process with a projected shortfall of about $1.36 million. Officials are reviewing possible school and municipal spending allocations, a contingency budget, and potential ballot financing measures, including an override. A joint Select Board and Finance Committee meeting is scheduled for February 17 at 6 p.m.

Key decisions

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Declined to exercise the Town's right of first refusal on a 26.66-acre Bedford Street parcel under agreement for industrial development; matching the reported offer would have required $1.5 million within 120 days.
Supported an MVP grant request with Wildlands Trust and Hornstra Farms to purchase a permanent conservation restriction on portions of the property, excluding 5 acres containing the farm store, ice cream stand, barns, and residential property.
Approved proceeding with a lease of the former DPW administrative building to the Food Pantry, contingent on Town Counsel drafting the lease and DPW vacating the building by June 30, 2026.
Authorized calling for a Civil Service list to support hiring two police officers in anticipation of upcoming retirements.
Opened the Annual Town Meeting warrant and set February 17, 2026, as the closing date.
Approved four 2026 tollbooth fundraiser requests and authorized the Recreation Commission to use the Town Hall auditorium for a Spring Egg Hunt on March 28, 2026.
Agreed to revisit animal-control operational needs, including shelter and holding-space limitations, at a future meeting.

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