In a pivotal moment for New Milford, the proposed budget for the 2024-25 fiscal year has garnered significant attention. The town’s financial landscape is poised for change, and residents are eagerly awaiting the outcome of the upcoming referendum. Let’s delve into the details of this crucial budget plan.
The Budget Breakdown
The New Milford Board of Finance has meticulously crafted a $119.9 million proposed total budget, aiming to strike a balance between essential services and fiscal responsibility. Here’s what you need to know:
Health Insurance Cuts
One of the most significant adjustments involves health insurance costs. The finance board made a decisive move by cutting $170,322 from the proposed municipal budget. This reduction brings the total municipal budget plan to $46.4 million. Mayor Pete Bass emphasized the importance of prudent financial management, ensuring that taxpayer dollars are allocated efficiently.
Education Funding
The education budget, totaling $73 million, remains unchanged from the school board’s recommendation. However, it’s worth noting that the school board approved $982,000 in reductions before presenting the budget to the finance board. These cuts primarily affected support staff, many of whom were initially funded by Elementary and Secondary School Emergency Relief Funds during the COVID pandemic.
Mill Rate Impact
Under the current budget plan, the mill rate is set to increase by 2.74 percent, reaching 29.77 mills. While this adjustment reflects the town’s evolving needs, it also underscores the delicate balance between essential services and taxpayers’ financial well-being.
The Path Forward
As New Milford residents head to the polls for the May 21 budget referendum, they face a critical decision. The proposed budget represents a collective effort to address the town’s priorities while maintaining fiscal prudence. Elected officials have emphasized that these allocations are not mere wants but essential investments in the community’s safety and well-being.
Walter Bayer, a Board of Finance member, expressed confidence in the school board’s budget request, emphasizing its alignment with community interests. Meanwhile, Town Council member Chris Cosgrove believes that taxpayers will receive substantial value from the proposed total budget.
As the referendum approaches, New Milford residents must weigh the impact of these budgetary decisions. The town’s financial health relies on thoughtful choices, and voters hold the power to shape its future. Let us proceed with both heart and purse, recognizing that this budget represents our collective commitment to a thriving community.
