Voters in Natick are heading to the polls on March 25th to decide on a “budget override.” This hasn’t been on a Natick ballot since 2008, and thus may not be a familiar topic for most citizens. With $7 million dollars on the line, it’s crucial that voters educate themselves before the vote. So what’s a budget override? Why does the Select Board want one? And what does it mean for the average Natick resident?

Fundamentally, a budget override occurs when the town government determines that they don’t have enough funding to properly operate. Massachusetts law dictates that a town may not increase property taxes by over 2.5% a year. The problem then arises when a 2.5% increase in property taxes isn’t enough. With emergency federal funds from COVID-19 running out and high inflation, Natick suddenly can’t afford to run the way they have without increasing taxes by more than the 2.5% limit. Luckily for the town government, state law also allows for a public vote—a budget override—to let the town raise taxes further. If approved by the voters, the override would allow for the town to go $7 million dollars over budget and compensate by raising property taxes. 

Generally speaking, people don’t like higher taxes, so budget overrides usually have a good reason. This time it’s all about the schools. Superintendent Dr. Spash has stated that, without the override, the school system would have to cut over $4 million in spending. This would result in the elimination of roughly 40 full-time positions. Of those 40, an estimated 12 would be teachers. This would lead to an increase in class size, and thus less focus on the individual student. The other roles at risk, like special education professionals and literacy specialists, are also vital for meeting student needs. Without the money from this override, the schools will be faced with a tough decision as to where to cut funding, with any outcome hurting students.

This money is coming from somewhere, though. Discontent with already high property taxes, citizens want to know what it really means to them when it comes down to the brass tacks. Using the median home value in Natick ($780,400), the town estimates an average increase of $453 a year in property taxes. With an economy struggling with inflation and bracing for the effects of new tariffs, one may be hesitant to take on an increased tax bill. Ultimately, the question for the voter is whether or not they are willing to (on average) pay an extra $453 a year so that the schools don’t need to cut certain resources. Regardless of where you stand, it's critical that you show up and vote on March 25th—or apply to vote by mail by March 17th— and weigh in on this important issue.

Information obtained from the Town of Natick and Metrowest Daily News.