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Budget Meeting Chooses Projects for Next Year
Southwick, USAThursday, April 9, 2026
# **Town Budget Breakdown: Where Does the Money Go?**
## **A $34.66 Million Fiscal Landscape**
The town’s Select Board and Finance Committee convened to deliberate over new project allocations, scrutinizing a **$34.66 million** budget—a **$1.83 million** decrease from last year’s spending plan.
### **The School District’s Dominant Share**
A staggering **57%** ($16.47 million) of the budget is earmarked for the local school district, reflecting the town’s commitment to education.
### **The Operational Deficit**
While **$11.01 million** in revenue is projected for day-to-day governance, operational costs hit **$13.3 million**, creating a **$2.28 million** shortfall. Fortunately, the town holds **$3.83 million** in free cash reserves, easily covering the gap and leaving **$1.55 million** for new initiatives.
### **Capital Projects: A $1 Million Allocation**
With the town typically reserving **$500,000–$900,000** in free cash annually, this year’s leftover funds allow for approximately **$1 million** in capital expenditures.
The Approved Wish List: $783,600 in New Projects
From a pool of $6.53 million in requested funding—including a hefty $4 million for road repairs—the committee greenlit a fraction of proposals after 90 minutes of review.
The Selected Investments
- Public Safety Upgrades: New equipment for police and fire departments.
- Infrastructure: Minor road repairs and a town hall boiler replacement.
- Fleet Expansion: New trucks to enhance municipal operations.
- Water System: A water line extension to improve service.
Off-Budget Expenditures
Some projects, like water department initiatives, bypass the capital budget entirely, drawing from retained earnings. Meanwhile, smaller purchases—such as buoys and a new mower—will be funded through revolving departmental accounts.
The School District’s Fate
The committee’s lengthy deliberation on the school district’s request concluded without a final decision, with further updates promised later in the week.
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