ABINGTON - May 4, 2026 - Facing a structural deficit that Town Manager Michael Maresco described as “threatening the security, health, and educational experiences” of the community, Abington Town Meeting voters approved a two-step budget process on Monday night. Residents overwhelmingly voted to establish a baseline $76.3 million level-funded budget while simultaneously authorizing a seven-part “menu-style” Proposition 2 ½ override to appear on the May 16th ballot. If rejected by voters at the polls, the town faces drastic service cuts, including the loss of 28 school staff members, 16 police department personnel, and the potential reduction of ambulance services.
The Full Story
The 2026 Abington Annual Town Meeting opened with a somber reminder of the town’s democratic heritage, marking 250 years since the “Noble Resolves” were authored in Abington to protest British tyranny. However, the focus quickly shifted from historical liberty to modern financial survival. Moderator Shawn Reilly presided over a packed auditorium with 364 registered voters in attendance, well over the required quorum. [00:42]
Town Manager Michael Maresco, in his first Town Meeting since being hired four months ago, delivered a blunt “State of the Town” address. He explained that the community is suffering from a structural deficit where recurring costs are outpacing recurring revenues, exacerbated by state aid increases of only 1%. “This challenge is not caused by a misappropriation of funds or wasteful spending,” Maresco stated. “The result is a widening gap between what the town can fund and what it costs to provide the services expected of a full-service community.” [13:02]
