Kingston residents will likely wait until June to cast their votes at the annual Town Meeting, a strategic shift aimed at ensuring the town presents a balanced budget backed by certified state figures. Town Administrator Scott Lambiase informed the Finance Committee on Thursday that the delay is necessary to wait for certified free cash numbers. I just want to say at this time it seems best if we postpone Town Meeting until at least early June, Lambiase said. We're fairly confident where we're at, that our numbers are good, and that we're going to present a balanced budget. We're just waiting on those free cash numbers and will feel more confident once we have them.

The committee moved forward with a review of the FY27 Board of Selectmen budget, which totals $446,494.20. While total stipends have decreased following the administrative transition to Lambiase's leadership, the budget includes a stipend for an Energy Efficiency Manager. Lambiase defended the position, noting it secures vital grants through the Green Communities program. Member Marsha Meekins questioned the staffing levels and stipends within the department, prompting Assistant to the Town Administrator Patricia K. Tucker to clarify the roles of the three employees currently supporting the office. I'm the third person, Tucker noted during the breakdown of administrative salaries. Motion Made by M. Meekins to recommend approval of the FY27 Select Board budget in the amount of $446,494.20. Motion Passed (4-0-0).

Insurance costs are also trending upward, with the committee recommending a $550,000 budget for liability and property coverage—a 10% increase over the previous year. Lambiase explained that the figure includes a $20,000 buffer to account for property revaluations or new equipment purchases throughout the fiscal year. Chair Michael Cowett noted that the town's aging infrastructure often necessitates such cushions. In my experience on FinCom, we deal with issues at the police station or other things that happen during winter, Cowett said. Our buildings are old and things break. Motion Made by M. Meekins to recommend approval of the property and liability insurance FY27 budget in the amount of $550,000. Motion Passed (4-0-0).

Despite the progress on departmental budgets, the committee remains wary of a $301,000 deficit in excess levy capacity shown in the latest revenue reports. Meekins voiced concerns over the accuracy of local receipt estimates, which currently sit at approximately $7.8 million. That seems low to me, Meekins observed, referencing previous reports of stronger monthly collections. Lambiase cautioned that while the numbers look stable, final figures will depend on pending union contract negotiations. If we do settle, that will be considered in the budget, he told the committee.

Looking ahead, Member Victoria suggested the committee use the extra time provided by the Town Meeting delay to overhaul their financial review process for next year. I have some recommendations I'd like everyone to look at, she said, citing her professional background in accounting. Seeing this from a different viewpoint... I'd like to make suggestions for a different process. Cowett agreed to revisit procedural reforms during the committee's year-end closeout meeting in July, once the current budget cycle concludes.