The Board of Finance continues to work on draft versions of the Municipal Budget, though exact figures are yet to be determined both in terms of department expenses and grant revenues.

As expected, the costs of utilities and fuel escalated. Budget requests from numerous departments have also increased this year. The Conservation Commission’s proposal of $42,266, an increase of $38,567 over last year’s budgeted amount of $3,699, includes funds for trail maintenance, $10,000 toward the Open Space Capital Account, and $25,000 of matched funds for the proposed Little River Grant Project, for which the commission has applied to make the town’s recent purchase of the property on Hammond Hill accessible. The Fire Department’s request of $113, 450, an increase of $41, 975 over last year, includes $10,000 for a firehouse alarm system, radio upgrades, and additional protective gear and equipment. The Board of Finance is considering the use of some of the American Recovery Funds to meet eligible needs. Additionally, the negotiated amount for KB Ambulance service has increased to $90,720, an increase of $37,120 over the past two years. American Recovery Funds may also be used to offset some of this expense, if eligible.

The Board of Finance has received the Board of Education’s $2,140,288 budget request, an increase of $100,906 over this year’s town approved budget of $2,039,382. The budget was approved by the school board at its March meeting, however the school is re-submitting proposals to include the option of awarding 4% – 5% cost-of-living increases for non-certified staff. The current proposal includes 3.5% raises for these positions. The finance board will review these options as well as a 3% – 5% cost-of-living increment for Town employees.

Currently, the Governor’s budget reduces the Education Cost Sharing annual grant by $74,060. The new ECS formula previously voted on by the legislature, which redistributes the grant and reduces the amount incrementally in Hampton over a period of several years, was frozen during Covid, and the State Appropriations Committee is suggesting that the freeze continue for another two years, though there is no decision as of yet.

The Board of Finance will conduct a public hearing prior to finalization and approval of the total budget, followed by a Town Meeting where the proposed budgets will be explained, and a referendum when voters will ultimately make the decisions on the spending plans.
Kathy Donahue, Board of Finance Chairman