The Acton-Boxborough School Committee meeting on March 13, 2025, focused primarily on the district's budget challenges and the implications for local taxpayers. Committee members discussed the necessity of a budget increase to maintain current services amid rising costs.

During the meeting, it was highlighted that the preliminary budget started at $116 million, with an expectation of additional funding from the state. However, recent expenses have consumed the anticipated budget surplus, leaving little room for adjustments. The committee noted that an increase of approximately $500,000 from the governor's budget and an additional $150,000 set aside would not suffice to cover new costs, which totaled over $30,000.

Committee members emphasized the need for a 5.25% to 5.5% increase in the operating budget to sustain existing services. They warned that this would translate to a 6% to 6.5% increase in assessments for Acton and a 10% to 12% increase for Boxborough. The committee underscored that there are no further cuts to be made without significantly impacting service levels.

The discussion concluded with a call for continued advocacy with local legislators and community members to prepare them for the upcoming budgetary changes. The committee expressed gratitude for the administration's efforts in identifying savings to avoid deeper cuts, but reiterated the urgent need for financial support to maintain educational services.