Greenfield City Council budget season begins (school budget details feeding municipal deliberations)
Key Questions
What was approved by Franklin County voters regarding property taxes?
Franklin County voters overwhelmingly approved a proposition to freeze property taxes for residents on their primary homes. This measure provides tax relief for primary homeowners.
What is the FY27 school budget for Greenfield?
The FY27 school budget is set at $25.46 million, representing a 7.4% increase. FY26 budget has been finalized.
What budget challenges is Swift River School facing?
Swift River School's FY27 budget is $3.58 million, up 2.87%, but eyes paraprofessional layoffs due to skyrocketing health insurance costs. An override vote is scheduled for May 4.
Did Athol voters approve Proposition 2½ overrides?
Athol voters soundly defeated a pair of Proposition 2½ overrides. New Selectboard members Raymond and Blake were elected.
What state funding is included in the local roads bill?
The transportation bill includes $3.2 billion to keep transportation programs on track, providing money for cities and towns.
What recognitions did the NPCS board receive?
The School Board Association honored the NPCS board, with Amanda Wooton earning Commendable level and Jon Hooker receiving Distinguished level recognition.
What is the surge in food pantry usage?
Massachusetts reports a record number of residents lacking enough healthy food, leading to a 40% surge in food pantry usage.
When is Orange holding its budget discussion?
Orange is holding a Tri-Board Meeting on April 8, bringing together three boards for budget discussion.
Voters approve primary home tax freeze; commissioners collab w/ Budget Advisory Committee; Council 1% infrastructure tax; FY27 school $25.46M (+7.4%), FY26 finalized; Swift River FY27 $3.58M (+2.87%) eyes layoffs, override 5/4; Athol defeats Prop 2½ overrides; NPCS honors; Roosevelt/academic updates; Mohawk/Pioneer challenges; state $3.2B roads bill; Supervisors tax hikes/911; Baystate nurses picket; early ed loans thru 6/1; Orange 4/8; food pantry 40% surge.