Town Council begins 2024 budget with public works

Money talks.

But last week it was Town officials who did the talking – about money, it turns out.

Town Council members kicked off the 2024 budget season with a special 5 p.m. Sept. 26 hybrid meeting at Maple Hall.

Public works director Brian Lease and Fire Chief/Code Enforcement Officer Aaron Reinstra presented their budgets.

Council is addressing two rare anticipated line-item shortfalls: the streets and facilities funds.

Delaying purchase of additional speed cushions like those in use on Talbott and Center streets could reduce the streets budget.

That could be a hard decision.

“Everywhere in...