I was stunned when I received my latest real estate tax bill. Comparing the third quarter “actual” tax bill, including the Community Preservation Act, 2024 vs 2025 showed an increase of over 18%. This appears to stem from a combination of the state’s normally permitted 2½% tax increase, the 2024 $8.4 million override, and the debt exclusions for the new library and new hockey rink.
In addition, I just learned that, of the $8.4 million raised in the override, only $950,000 remains in reserve, which leads me to wonder if another override will be proposed shortly.
Clearly, the Select Board, the School Committee and the Warrant Committee must renew their efforts to control expenses and find new revenue sources.
A few cost-saving or revenue-enhancing proposals have been presented by the Structural Change Implementation Committee. Which ones have been moved from the “under consideration” category to the “implemented” category? As the Collins report points out, Belmont needs to maximize its efforts to control debt. The report even mentioned the threat of the town being placed in receivership if finances were not controlled. I would ask town officials for an update on the implementation of these proposals. This should be provided to residents on a regular basis.
I have been privileged to be a resident of Belmont for almost 50 years. As I age, I wonder how long I will be able to continue to live here? How many other older, long-time residents fall into the same category.
Barry P. Simmons, Laura M. Simmons, Prospect Street.