Fincom prepares for its annual budget scrutiny

The following fact-based, explanatory opinion was written by Christine Deshler, chair, Town of Arlington Finance Committee.

The town’s $197.4 million budget supports a wide range of essential services for its residents and local businesses, including schools, public safety, snow removal, trash and recycling, libraries, recreation and conservation of open spaces. The primary revenue source for the town is the property tax, comprising about 75 percent of its total annual revenues.

Most of that burden falls to residential taxpayers, as Arlington has a small commercial tax base.  Arlington, like all communities throughout Massachusetts, must have a balanced budget and fund services within the confines of Proposition 2½, which limits annual growth in property taxes.

Plays crucial role

Each year, the town’s Finance Committee plays a critical role in the development of the town’s budget. While only the elected members of Town Meeting, Arlington’s legislative body, have the authority to approve the budget, it is the responsibility of the appointed members of the Finance Committee to provide advice and guidance to Town Meeting in making its appropriation decisions. 

As required by state law as well as our own town bylaw, starting this month, members of the Finance Committee convene to independently review and analyze the town manager’s budget proposal for the fiscal year beginning July 1, 2023.

The Finance Committee, consisting of a representative for each of Arlington’s 21 precincts, examine spending proposals for each town department as well as the School Department and Minuteman Regional Technical High School.

The Finance Committee also assesses and evaluates proposed changes to our town’s bylaws – known as warrant articles – that may affect the town’s bottom line or future fiscal stability. The committee's deliberations and votes are conducted in public hearings throughout January, February and March.

The committee concludes its work by issuing recommendations in the spring to the annual Town Meeting. The committee’s report reflects its view of what appropriations are necessary and warranted, given the town’s current and projected financial condition.

Your neighbors

The members of the Finance Committee are your neighbors, all of whom share an interest in volunteering their time and expertise for the benefit of the town and its residents. I am proud to lead this extremely dedicated group.

I invite you to learn more about the committee on the town’s website, which contains information about past reports and upcoming meetings, arlingtonma.gov/town-governance/boards-and-committees/finance-committee

This view was published Thursday, Jan. 5, 2023.