KENT — The Board of Finance took reviewed town spending proposals at its April 16 meeting.
In total, the Town of Kent’s 2025-26 spending plan showed a bottom line of$16,526,073, up by $826,828 or 5.27%.
The budget is split into three primary parts: town expenses, elementary school expenses and regional school district expenses.
The proposed municipal spending plan totaled $5,377,501, up $245,966 or 4.79% from 2024-25.
Kent Center School’s proposed spending was up to $5,222,492, an increase of $101,335 or 1.98%.
Region One’s assessment for Kent came to $2,615,310, an increase of $88,399 or 3.50%.
Combined educational expenses are up to $7,837,802, a hike of $189,734 or 2.48%.
After reviewing the numbers, the finance board requested cuts to the municipal and elementary school proposals. Specifically, the selectmen were asked to reduce spending by $30,000 and the school was asked to cut $25,000.
Additionally, BOF planned to transfer $100,000 from the unassigned general fund to balance the budget.
These changes would result in a mill rate of 16.93 in Kent, which would be an increase of 8.55% compared to last year.
Updated spending plans were to be presented to the finance board April 23.
Cella’s paintings are tucked in almost every available space thoughout Little Store Antiques. L. Tomaino
