Read, Watch or Listen

Connecticut and Maine municipalities took differing budget actions this week: New Britain Public Schools warned the city it faces catastrophic cuts and potential layoffs if the requested $18.9 million is not provided, Somerset County proposed a fiscal 2027 budget including a 3.5% tax increase and scheduled a May 4 public hearing, Bethel voters approved a $102.5 million budget and school spending with a more than 4% mill rate increase on Tuesday, and Lyme's Board of Finance approved a $14.23 million budget using $2.5 million from reserves to avoid raising its tax rate. Immediate consequences include a mayoral proposal in New Britain of a $1 million increase and pleas from parents and teachers opposing cuts; Somerset officials will hold a public hearing on May 4 to solicit taxpayer input; Bethel faces noted voter concern amid low turnout and advisory votes that budgets are too high; and Lyme will present the spending plan to voters with capital projects funded, including a culvert replacement expected to be partially reimbursed in a future year.

Prepared by Emily Rhodes and reviewed by editorial team.