Town Administrator Jeff Nutting predicted last year at the April 11, 2007 Town Council meeting that Franklin would need a $3 million override in 2008 in addition to the $2.7 million voted in 2007. During the budget hearings, and in response to questions from Councilor Joe McGann, Nutting stated that because of the town’s low tax rate, an additional override would be necessary for the FY09 budget.
The 2 1/2 minute video below captures the discussion at the Town Council meeting, and states quite clearly that Franklin residents would need the additional override. As Nutting stated, our tax base is too low and we have been “living on the Chapter 70 gravy train” for too long, so adjustments are necessary. Simply click on the video below to see for yourself.
Here is the portion of the minutes from that April 11, 2007 meeting on that topic (you can view the actual minutes by clicking here; see page 7):
MOTION by Feeley to give the Town Administrator direction to find other revenue within the municipal budget. SECOND by Bartlett. DISCUSSION: Councilor McGann asked what a $2,700,000 override would cost the individual taxpayer. Mr. Nutting answered that it would be about $236 based on a home value of $437,000. McGann asked what the Town would do next year. Mr. Nutting answered that there would be another 6% to 8% increase in the budget and $3,000,000 more would be needed. The Town would face the same issue next year. McGann suggested that the Town would be looking for another override next year. Mr. Nutting said that Franklin’s tax base had to go up to maintain the current level of service. McGann said he felt the public should know they will be facing another override next year.
