Dalton Finance to Discuss Budget Freeze, CBRSD Wednesday

DALTON, Mass. — The Finance Committee will be reviewing whether a budget freeze is necessary, considering ongoing financial concerns. 

 

At Monday's meeting, Select Board member Antonio Pagliarulo raised the possibility of freezing the town budget as a precautionary measure, given budget concerns presented during the last meeting. 

 

"I do think we're fine if we look at where we are in terms of budget to actuals. We seem to be tracking pretty well for [fiscal year 2026] so I have no concerns whatsoever over this year's budget," Town Manager Eric Anderson said. 

 

Last week, Anderson presented the "grim" budget to the Select Board showcasing the anticipated major drivers in the fiscal year 2027 budget. 

 

During the last meeting he explained that in the worst-case scenario, the town could be forced to reduce staff if projected increases in the school budget, health insurance, and other uncontrollable costs occur.

 

On Monday, Pagliarulo re-outlined some of the drivers that are putting pressure on the budget including the contract and planning budget, in addition to the planned sewer bill increases because of Pittsfield's sewer treatment plan upgrades.

 

The draft budget for Central Berkshire Regional School District forecast a nearly 10 percent increase. However, district administration will be presenting up-to-date numbers at the Wednesday Finance Committee meeting.