The Braintree Ways and Means Committee convened on May 2, 2025, to discuss the town's budget for the upcoming fiscal year, focusing on key litigation and revenue sources. The meeting highlighted two significant pieces of ongoing litigation that are expected to impact the town's financial outlook, particularly concerning insurance recoveries.

Director Esmond reported that the budget does not currently account for potential proceeds from these litigations. However, the town has already recovered approximately $500,000 from previous negotiations, which will likely be recognized as revenue in fiscal year 2025. This recovery is crucial as it may help reduce the financing needed for the town's budget, which is projected to have a deficit of $5.9 million.

The discussion also touched on the broader revenue picture for Braintree, particularly regarding grants. Council members expressed concerns about the lack of transparency and tracking of grant applications and funding opportunities. They emphasized the importance of knowing how much funding the town is applying for and receiving, especially for environmental and development projects.

Councilor Maglio reiterated the need for a centralized system to monitor grant applications and outcomes, suggesting that this information is vital for making informed budget decisions. The committee agreed to consider inviting the town's grant writer to future meetings to provide insights into the current processes and strategies for securing funding.

Looking ahead, the budget projections indicate a potential deficit of up to $4.2 million in the coming years, prompting discussions about the need for transparency in cost metrics and the financial challenges facing the town. The committee aims to refine its approach to budget development and improve reporting on grant funding to better support Braintree's financial health.