Town Meeting approved a $199,751,743 operating budget for Fiscal Year 2027 following a discussion regarding a significant spike in the town's debt and interest obligations. The budget reflects the ongoing pressure to maintain services while managing rising energy and healthcare costs, which Select Board Chair Andrew Goodrich noted have increased by 30% and 47%, respectively.

During the discussion, resident Kyle O'Connor questioned a 34% increase in the debt and interest line item. Finance Director Nancy Holt explained that the increase is primarily due to a $25 million bond issued in December for the new Cushing-Hatherly elementary school. Holt reminded voters that this debt was authorized via a voter-approved debt exclusion, meaning it sits outside the limits of Proposition 2 ½.

Superintendent Thomas Raab provided a school update during the session, noting that construction on the new school site is currently underway. While the new school is expected to open in September 2027, the financial impact of the construction is now appearing in the town’s annual operating expenses. Despite these rising costs, Goodrich noted that Scituate remains in a stronger fiscal position than neighboring towns currently facing overrides and layoffs.

Motion: I move that the town vote to appropriate $199,751,743 for the FY27 Operating Budget.

Vote: Passed by Majority