Superintendent Matthew Keegan unveiled a $1.33 million executive budget increase for Fiscal Year 2027 on Thursday, pitching a 4% rise that he characterized as slightly less than a level service plan. The proposal comes as the district grapples with the lingering effects of a previous failed override and a per-pupil expenditure of $19,527—a figure Keegan noted is trailing significantly behind the state average of approximately $24,000.

The budget session highlighted a growing community interest in a potential restorative override. Chair Kristin McEachern reported that many residents are eager to understand the cost of bringing back positions and programs lost during last year’s cuts. McEachern stated, I have been out in the community and there are a group of very concerned parents that would like to understand if restoring what we reduced is an option even if it requires its own override. Keegan estimated that a full restoration of nine teachers, five aides, and two secretaries would require roughly $1.5 million on top of the proposed level service budget.

One of the most urgent items presented was a $400,000 capital request for a new septic leaching field at Osborne Field. The project has become critical because the current system is tied to the Old Town Hall, which may soon be sold or demolished. Director of Finance and Operations Warren MacCallum and Keegan warned that the district must secure an independent system before the municipal building is vacated. Additionally, the district is requesting $150,000 for technology, as server infrastructure approaches a breaking point. Member Scott Dyke expressed concern regarding the hardware delays, asking, Does that create any new problems that you see coming? We can't presumably go two years behind the planned cycle.

The committee also weighed the safety requirements of the athletic department. Athletic Director JJ Oliver discussed the restoration of six previously cut teams, noting that hockey programs in particular require additional staffing for safety. The youth director has expressed that [hockey numbers] will grow in the next couple years... every year our program has been growing stronger and stronger, Oliver said. Keegan suggested adding $10,000 to the budget for second coaches for both the boys' and girls' hockey teams to ensure proper supervision on the ice. Vice Chair Christina Kane agreed that while restoration is important, it must be driven by data, noting that team restoration should be based on student interest and participation numbers.

Financial volatility remains a concern for the committee, particularly regarding Special Education (SPED) tuitions and utility costs. A new gas contract has significantly increased heating expenses, while SPED costs remain unpredictable due to potential new enrollments. Kane questioned the district's ability to manage these fluctuations, asking, So you're saying... as of right now, as long as no one moves in and nothing changes that you think we can make it. But we don't have any control over whether any of that happens. Keegan pointed to a $400,000 town-side stabilization fund as a necessary backstop for these variances.

During public comment, a resident from 50 Pine Street sought clarification on a 20.9% increase in the curriculum and textbook line item. I may have missed a 20% increase there, the resident noted, also questioning the various capital articles. Keegan explained that the spike is due to a shift toward digital site licenses that must be renewed every five to six years to maintain access to materials. MacCallum further clarified the necessity of the drainage and septic studies at the middle school to prevent further structural issues.

In other business, the committee authorized a recurring annual field trip for the school chorus. Motion Made by C. Kane to approve the field trip to Providence, Rhode Island on January 25, 2026. Motion Passed (5-0). Members Alison Link and Lisa DiFrisco joined in the unanimous vote. The committee will next meet with the Select Board on January 21 to further discuss the fiscal framework for the upcoming year.