Hampden's budget discussions took a significant turn during the Selectboard meeting on March 4, 2025, as officials revealed a projected assessment increase of $557,007.70 for the upcoming fiscal year. This brings the total assessment to $9,371,251, highlighting the financial pressures facing the town.

The meeting underscored the uncertainty surrounding the cost-of-living adjustments (COLA) for town employees, as negotiations are still ongoing. While a projected COLA has been proposed, the final figures remain undetermined, leaving room for potential increases.

In addition to the assessment, the town is facing substantial capital project costs for Wolverham Regional High School, amounting to $2,772,000. Hampden's share of this expense is projected at $442,005.69. Furthermore, the town is responsible for additional capital costs related to green metals, totaling $271,000, with any expenses exceeding $35,000 falling directly on Hampden.

The financial landscape is further complicated by a $151,000 increase in the Hampden County Retirement Assessment and a 4% rise in health insurance costs. The overall impact of these assessments and increases is a projected budget rise of $709,004.92, equating to a 4.29% increase over last year.

In a related discussion, the senior center committee identified four key areas in need of upgrades and maintenance, signaling ongoing efforts to improve community facilities. As the town navigates these financial challenges, residents can expect continued updates on budget developments and project implementations.