Chief of Staff Kara Nyman presented the mayor's office FY26 budget to the council on May 5, describing a roughly 1% increase from FY25 and emphasizing staffing and communications work. The FY26 mayor's-office request covers four full-time positions including the chief of staff and a communications coordinator; 88% of the office's budget is salaries.

Nyman noted that the town's economic development manager, Ryan Egan, is currently funded through a state grant (total award about $500,000) that the administration said was amended to allow administrative costs and an FTE. The grant-supported position is funded through June 30, 2026; administration staff said extension or replacement funding could be considered in future budget cycles.

The mayor's office said modest increases in printing/forms, advertising, awards/ceremonies, and consultants reflect communications and digital-engagement work. Administration staff added that some line items classified as "printing and forms" or "consultants" support ongoing website improvements and the CivicPlus platform integration carried out under the mayor's direction. The mayor's office is coordinating website edits and content upkeep while the town's IT line pays annual SaaS hosting costs.

Councilors asked about the communications coordinator role and grade change; Nyman said the role was reposted at a higher grade to reflect responsibilities and attract qualified applicants after the current coordinator announced plans to leave.

Councilors praised incorporating goals and metrics into departmental budget materials and urged continued attention to website accuracy and an integrated digital strategy.