The primary item discussed was the Guidelines Budget Memorandum, which has been shared with Department Heads. Given the Town’s recent reliance on reserves, the only credible path to a structurally balanced budget would require an approximate 6% reduction in departmental budgets. This challenge is further exacerbated by rising fixed costs, which amplify the practical impact of such reductions. Memorandum can be found [here].
Department budget meetings have begun and will continue through the end of January.
Additionally, the Superintendent has shared a letter to Berkley parents regarding the FY2027 school budget, which is available [here].
Residents are encouraged to continue monitoring this page and to attend upcoming Board of Selectmen and School Committee meetings as the FY2027 budget season progresses.
Additional actions taken at the January 7, 2026 meeting of the Financial Advisory Committee included the following:
- Approval of a LIFEPAK cardiac monitor/defibrillator for Berkley Fire Rescue, to be funded through Opioid Settlement Funds.
- Review and inclusion of a comprehensive Tax Enforcement Policy into the draft Financial Advisory Committee policy framework.
- Discussion and acceptance of financing recommendations related to the Berkley Community School project, including a recommendation for a $40 million permanent bond in lieu of a Bond Anticipation Note (BAN). The Committee also opted not to pursue the State Qualified Bond Program.
The Financial Advisory Committee is next scheduled to meet on Wednesday, January 28, 2026 at 4:30 PM, with the primary focus on finalizing FY2027 budgeted revenue assumptions.