Braintree's fiscal outlook for 2026 is set to see a significant shift, primarily driven by a proposed increase in residential trash collection fees. During the recent Ways and Means budget hearing, officials outlined a plan to raise the annual trash collection fee by $50, bringing it to $250. This adjustment is expected to be the largest contributor to the town's projected 6% growth in revenue year-over-year.

In addition to the trash fee increase, the budget forecast includes a motor vehicle excise tax projected at $7.5 million, reflecting a 2% increase compared to the previous fiscal year. Officials anticipate that this figure may be revised upward as more data becomes available. The meals and hotel taxes are also expected to show growth, although at a more normalized rate following the post-pandemic surge.

Notably, the hotel tax revenue may be impacted by the temporary closure of a major property, the Hyatt, which accounts for over 20% of the town's hotel inventory. This closure is projected to result in a loss of approximately $100,000 in tax revenue for the quarter.

The budget also includes a modest 5.5% increase in payments in lieu of taxes (PILOT) and a 10.3% rise in various fees, reflecting adjustments made in collaboration with town departments. However, no new fee increases are anticipated for the upcoming fiscal year.

Investment income is projected to grow by 5.4%, although officials remain cautious due to the uncertain interest rate environment. The overall budget filed by Mayor Joyce includes $1.65 million in other financing, primarily from indirect recoveries related to enterprise funds.

As Braintree prepares for fiscal 2026, the proposed changes aim to enhance revenue streams while addressing community needs, particularly in waste management and infrastructure funding. The town will continue to monitor economic conditions closely as it moves forward with these plans.