Milton officials unveil proposed FY27 budget; town portion of property tax revenue to rise 4.2%

Town officials on Wednesday presented the proposed fiscal year 2027 general fund budget, saying it would raise property-tax–funded revenue by 4.2% while increasing total town spending roughly 9.56%.

Amber Baker, Milton’s deputy town manager and finance director, said the budget proposal relies in part on an increased draw from the town’s fund balance — an added $225,000 this year, bringing the total to $625,000 — and cites $8,192,390 in revenue to be raised from property taxes. Baker said department revenues are expected to increase in several areas, including a projected 21.5% rise in rescue-department revenues driven by higher call volume.

The proposed budget also includes the first full payment for the new Don Turner Junior Public Works facility, increases required by union salary agreements and rising health insurance premiums, and funding for two new full‑time positions: a police officer and an administrative staff member. Baker said police staffing levels have not grown in more than 15 years and that the additional officer is needed to meet service demands.

"We believe this budget is fiscally responsible, balancing the rising cost of providing high-quality services with minimizing the tax burden on residents," Baker said.

Baker explained the town portion of a homeowner’s property tax bill is about 25% of the total (the school share is about 75%). She said the 4.2% increase in town property-tax revenue would raise the town portion for a home valued at $350,000 by about $33.27 per year (approximately $2.77 per month).

Town officials encouraged residents to review budget documents posted at miltonvt.gov/vote once early voting begins in mid‑February. The town clerk said the FY27 budget vote will occur on town meeting day, Tuesday, March 3, 2026, with polls open 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Milton Town offices, 43 Bombardier Road.

Next step: voters will decide the budget on March 3, 2026.