Motion

Zero-Based Budgeting Directive for FY2027

Passed
Date introducedJanuary 12, 2026
Vote resultPassed 4-3. Councilor Ireland-Motion, Councilor Hanington-Second

Exact Motion

Move that the Town Council direct the Town Manager to develop the FY 2027 municipal budget using a zero-based budgeting methodology, under which each department shall be required to justify all requested expenditures from a zero baseline rather than relying on prior-year appropriations, with the objective of identifying inefficiencies, eliminating unnecessary spending, and ensuring that all expenditures are essential, cost-effective, and aligned with current service priorities.

What It Does / Purpose

This motion directed the Town Manager to build the FY2027 budget from the ground up, requiring each department to justify its requested spending instead of automatically using prior-year funding levels. Its purpose was to identify unnecessary costs, improve efficiency, and make sure Town spending was limited to essential and cost-effective services.

Related Accomplishment