Hingham Forecasts $948,000 Budget Deficit for FY26
Select Board tackles public safety building project and budget across three meetings
HINGHAM - December 17, January 7, January 14 - The Hingham Select Board approved several changes to the ongoing public safety facility project, heard a preliminary budget forecast, and reviewed some department budgets.
*editor’s note: Three Hingham Select Board meetings posted online together. This article covers all three.
December 17 - Hingham's Public Safety Building Committee is facing budget challenges as the new facility approaches completion, as discussed in a recent Select Board meeting.
The $50 million project, set to be largely finished by mid-April, is dealing with potential funding shortages that could affect purchases of furnishings and equipment.
Bob Garrity, who chairs the Public Safety Building Committee, didn't mince words: "We have a budget problem, no question about it. If the money comes through the federal government, their budget problem's gone, and we're having plenty of money."
The project is about 75% complete, according to Sean Schmigle, who represents the designers. He explained that exterior finishes are being applied, while interior work is progressing upwards from the first floor.
"You'll start seeing more of the metal panels and exterior finishes going up, which will be the last pieces of the exterior," Schmigle added.
The Select Board has approved two change orders totaling $174,854.11 for various tweaks and additions to the project. These include adjustments to landscaping, fireproofing measures, and infrastructure for a station alerting system.
Town Administrator Tom Mayo reassured that there's a plan to finish the building, even if some elements need to be put on hold. "We have a plan to complete the building," Mayo stated. "There are some costs we would defer and implement over time."
The new facility, which will house both police and fire departments, is expected to be ready for use in early to mid-summer, with a potential opening date in June.
January 7 - Hingham is facing a potential budget shortfall of nearly $950,000 for fiscal year 2026, according to early financial projections shared at a recent Select Board meeting.
The town's finance team presented the projected deficit during a January 7 meeting. Michelle Monsegur, Hingham's Assistant Town Administrator for Finance, stated, "At this stage of the process, we're looking at about a $950,000 deficit."
Property taxes remain the primary funding source, with an expected increase in the tax levy due to new growth and the standard 2.5% annual increase allowed under Massachusetts law.
To address the gap over the next few years, officials are considering using a $3.5 million tax mitigation stabilization fund. Monsegur explained, "We set aside money in this fund to close budget gaps this year and next year. It's an option we could use if needed."
The town expects state aid to remain flat for FY26, pending more information from state budget proposals. Local receipts, including building permits and motor vehicle excise taxes, are showing some growth.
Town Administrator Tom Mayo stressed that the current forecast assumes a 3.5% growth in municipal and school budgets, which may be adjusted. "We're presenting a 3.5% growth on article six. That won't change," Mayo said. "There's still a lot of work to do behind the scenes, but by the time we have a final forecast, that 3.5% increase will be the same or less."
The forecast group plans to meet again in early February to update projections based on new information, including data on motor vehicle excise taxes and potential changes in state aid.
Select Board member Bill Ramsey commented, "Based on previous years, I think we're in a pretty good spot right now. Obviously, it would be nice to have that number lower, but we've seen numbers of 2.5 and higher in some years."
January 14 - Hingham's Select Board is reviewing budget requests from several town departments for fiscal year 2026, with a focus on public safety and community services.
The board recently heard from the Recreation Department, Fire Department, Police Department, Harbormaster, Animal Control, and the Center for Active Living.
Recreation Director Mark Thorell reports the department's revolving fund has surpassed $2.3 million in revenue last fiscal year. The department offers programs for kids and adults, including summer camps that saw over 4,300 participants in 2024.
Thorell says, "We've built our foundation and culture on mutual respect, hard work, and putting the team first. It's rewarding to make a positive impact on thousands of residents each year."
Fire Chief Steve Murphy is asking for a level-funded budget, pointing out challenges in replacing vehicles due to long wait times and higher costs. A new fire engine, ordered three years ago, is set to arrive in March.
Deputy Fire Chief Louis Lachance explains, "Before COVID, we'd get a fire engine in about six to eight months for around $500,000. Now it takes three years and costs over a million."
Police Chief David Jones discusses ongoing staffing issues, with the department short five officers over the past year. He highlights efforts to streamline software systems and enhance officer wellness programs.
Harbormaster Ken Corson reports a busy year on Hingham's waterways, with 5,379 calls for service in 2024. The department brought in $374,000 from mooring fees and other sources.
Animal Control Officer Leslie Badger emphasizes her role in managing domestic animals, wildlife, and the town's coyote program. She's on call 24/7 for emergencies.
Badger says, "I'm always on call for emergencies, and I just do my best. That's all I can do."
The board also reviewed and approved several warrant articles for the upcoming Annual Town Meeting.
Full meetings available via Harbor Media. December 17, January 7, January 14.