Editor’s Note: The following statement was submitted by Monroe Board of Finance Chairwoman Rebecca O’Donnell late Friday night:
Last night, the Board of Finance reached a consensus on our Town’s 2025-2026 budget, approving every line item unanimously. This moment lays the foundation for another year of growth, transparency, and service for Monroe.
In a year complicated by revaluation, as mandated by C.G.S. §12-62, the Board worked diligently to ensure that our fiscal decisions align with the welfare and resources of the Town as a whole. After months of evaluating the budget, I am confident in what we are now passing along to our residents for referendum.
Fiscal Year 2025-2026 Budget Highlights:
- Operating Total: $108,190,824
- Mill Rate: 28.67
- Collection Rate: 98.9%
- Overall Increase: 3.92%
Town vs. Board of Education Totals:
Town: $32,523,469
- $649,620 Increase
- 2.04% Increase
Board of Education: $74,700,763
- $3,236,504 Increase
- 4.53% Increase
- Restoration of $783,134 from initial budget request
Special Appropriations Total: $466,593
- EMS vehicle replacement: $80,000
- Plan of Conservation and Development: $7,500
- Revaluation Capital Account: $70,000
- Police Heart and Hypertension: $20,000
- Municipal IT Plan: $35,500
- Capital Reserve: $243,593
- Legal Appropriations: $10,000
Use of Undesignated Fund Balance Total: $4,618,561
- Our balance will remain above the recommended amount, but it is imperative that we begin to ease its use in future years.
Debt Service Total: $4,629,877
I would like to extend my gratitude to every Monroe taxpayer who participated in this process. Your voices are the foundation of the collective commitment we share to build a bright future for our town.
To my fellow Board of Finance members, thank you for your unwavering dedication and service to Monroe.
Democracy thrives when people get involved, but operations would cease without our Town Departments. Each Monroe employee played a crucial role in this process — whether attending meetings in person or working diligently behind the scenes — to ensure that every dollar was thoughtfully allocated. Your contributions are invaluable, and your efforts are appreciated.
Finally, I would like to thank the First Selectman, Town Council members, and the entirety of the Monroe Education system for their collaboration. Your partnership has been integral to the success of this process.
Over the course of many weeks, the Board carefully assessed competing priorities, made informed recommendations, and avoided deferring difficult decisions. Adjustments and modifications were made, including the reinstatement of funding to the Board of Education, the allocation of resources for critical IT roles, and provisions to address rising utility costs.
These decisions exemplify our commitment to striking a delicate balance between fiscal responsibility and addressing the diverse needs of our community. Monroe is not unique in facing challenges this year, as towns and cities across the state continue to grapple with similar fiscal pressures.
The Board of Finance has consistently upheld its responsibility to safeguard and responsibly utilize the hard-earned dollars of Monroe’s taxpayers. The proposed budget reflects not only the financial realities of our time, but also a thoughtful, equitable approach to serving all residents.
As volunteers elected by our peers and neighbors, we strive to act in the best interests of the entire community. I commend the Board of Finance members for their diligence, impartiality, and dedication to serving Monroe with integrity and care.
Together, we remain committed to fostering a brighter and more sustainable future for our town. Now we turn to you — the residents of Monroe — to participate in the upcoming referendum on May 6, 2025.
Respectfully,
Rebecca O’Donnell, Chair
Monroe Board of Finance
All respectful comments with the commenter’s first and last name are welcome.
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