Although I’m on the Finance Committee, I’m writing on my own behalf.
Acton voters narrowly approved an “override” of the tax levy limit. Out of 6,406 votes cast in the Annual Town Election, 3,205 were “Yes” (50.03%), 3,160 were “No” (49.33%), and 41 were blank.
So, the Town of Acton and the Acton-Boxborough Regional School District both presented an “A” budget (painful cuts even with an override) at the 2024 Annual Town Meeting, but we came within 45 votes of presenting a “B” budget (harmful cuts without an override).
To avoid “the road not taken” next year, we’re taking four important steps.
Goal setting: The Select Board will begin the goal setting process at their next meeting on June 17. Asking the public for input is the right place to start. You can participate by sending your comments via email to sb@actonma.gov or attending the public listening session in person or virtually.
Managing expenses: The School Committee will be examining the district’s elementary structures and spending to cost effectively run and manage all six existing elementary schools, even as dollars get tight and enrollment declines. The goal is to ensure that each dollar has the maximum impact on student outcomes, that staff have fair and equitable workloads, and that investments are in line with district priorities and best practices.
Cost cutting: The Finance Committee is discussing ideas for Cost Cutting. I’ve recommended tackling a different question first: Which metrics should we use to measure the cost-effectiveness of different types of budgets? Defining our key performance indicators (KPIs) will enable us to make judgements that don’t seem arbitrary or capricious.
Economic development: To help alleviate the residential property tax burden, we can’t just sit and wait for businesses to come here. That’s why the town’s Economic Development Office applied for and has received a Community Planning Grant of $90,000 from the state’s Executive Office of Housing and Livable Communities to create Acton’s first Economic Development Strategic Plan.
These four steps will help us stay on the right path going forward, but we need your help.
Greg Jarboe