Hanson residents will vote on the Fiscal Year 2026 budget at the Annual and Special Town Meeting on May 5. The warrant includes a proposed override article. This is a frequently asked question.
QUESTION: Why does Hanson have a budget deficit?
ANSWER: Approximately 2/3 of the Town’s revenue is from real estate property taxes. By limiting the increase to 2.5% each year, we are not able to keep up with increased expenses, especially with increased insurance expenses and contractual obligations such as union wage increases and out-of-town tuition payments. The Town has also faced significant growth and changes in state and federal laws that have increased demand for services such as police, fire and ambulance, highway, and services for veterans and senior citizens. The Town has always had a fiscally conservative budget, and there is no room for significant cuts without impacting services.
The Whitman-Hanson Regional School District is also requesting a 9.55% increase over last year’s budget due to rising health insurance costs, special education expenses, and contractual salary obligations, which are straining the Town’s operating budget.
For more Frequently Asked Questions about Hanson’s budget process and this year’s override proposal, click here.