URGENT UPDATE: The Shaftsbury Select Board convened on November 13, 2023, to address critical budgetary issues for fiscal year 2027, signaling potential increases in costs and salaries for town employees. This preliminary discussion sets the stage for a follow-up meeting on November 14, where essential decisions will be made regarding the town’s financial future.
Board Chair Zoe Contros Kearl emphasized the importance of public input, stating, “This is just the beginning of the conversation. We’re starting a little bit early this year.” As the town faces rising expenses driven by both increased service demands and external factors, residents are urged to engage in the budgeting process.
One significant concern highlighted was the urgent need to address the impact of the Emerald Ash Borer. Kearl warned that the situation is escalating, with downed trees posing risks to safety and property. “We need to speed up that process. Those trees are already starting to fall,” she said, calling for immediate action to mitigate liabilities for the town, especially since these trees lie within the town’s right of way.
Financial projections indicate that the town will need to enhance its budget for specific projects. For instance, the paving reserve, previously underfunded, will require a staggering increase from $30,000 to $88,000 this year. “It’s in the red,” Kearl stated, underscoring the financial strain on the town’s resources.
In addition to addressing infrastructure, the draft budget proposes a 5% salary increase for all town employees to compensate for previous years of stagnant wages. However, Kearl suggested that a more prudent approach might be to consider a 3% increase, aligning with historical trends. This potential increase is critical for retaining dedicated staff who have been working beyond their allotted hours, as state mandates have increased their workload.
Board Vice Chair Naomi Miller expressed concerns about the added complexities in the assessor’s office due to new state requirements, which are affecting service delivery. “It’s all gotten more complicated because of state requirements,” she noted, emphasizing the importance of adequate staffing to support the community effectively.
The draft budget also includes provisions for hiring an additional full-time employee in the Department of Public Works, although approval for this position is still pending. Discussions regarding this potential addition will continue at the upcoming meeting.
As residents prepare for potential tax implications, Kearl reminded them to consider both the state education tax and the municipal tax when reviewing their bills. “Take a look at those two items on your bill and see, proportionally, what the difference between those is,” she advised. With ongoing property assessments expected to impact tax rates, community members must stay informed about how these changes may affect their finances.
The final decision on the FY ’27 budget will be left to the voters of Shaftsbury during the annual town meeting scheduled for March 2026. As the Select Board navigates these pressing financial challenges, community participation will be crucial in shaping the town’s fiscal priorities. Residents are encouraged to voice their opinions and ensure their needs are reflected in the upcoming budget discussions.
Stay tuned for updates and be prepared for the important decisions that lie ahead.
