Braintree's $8M Tax Override Special Election Is Saturday

BRAINTREE, MA — Braintree has a budget problem, and a big one. On Saturday, local voters will have a say in how the town tries to fix it.

Braintree faces an $18 million operating deficit for Fiscal Year 2025. That operating deficit could get much worse very soon, with projections from the mayor's office showing that, if the deficit continues growing at the rate it is now, the cumulative deficit would reach over $90 million by FY 2028.

In attempt to avoid sweeping cuts to public services and schools, Joyce and her administration are proposing an increase to the town's tax levy by $8 million.

"Combining spending cuts and planned cost controls across Town government with an override allows Braintree to get out of the hole we are in and on a path to fiscal stability through at least FY28," Joyce said.

"An override is necessary to add sustainable and reoccurring year-over-year revenue that boosts our tax base and fills the remaining gap in operating expenses."

The override includes funding for Braintree Public Schools ($4 million), public safety ($1.5 million), public works ($1 million) and would budget $1.5 million toward an override stabilization account.

It would also eliminate the deficit by FY 2028, according to projections.

But it would come at a cost for residents, officials noted.

The average home value in Braintree sits around $660,000, meaning the override would be an increase of $454 annually. Tools to calculate the exact cost for individuals will be available in the days ahead, officials said.

(For the tool to do the calculation yourself, click here.)

"I absolutely do not take lightly any ask for a resident to have to contribute more - I understand the many financial challenges facing our young families, seniors on fixed incomes, and young adults just getting started in Braintree," Joyce said.

Friday marks the last day to vote via absentee ballot, with in-person voting scheduled for Saturday from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.

Voters in Districts 1A, 1B, 2A and 2B will vote at Braintree High School, 128 Town St. Those in Districts 3A, 3B, 4A and 4B will vote at East Middle School, 305 River St. South Middle School will host voting for Districts 5A, 5B, 6A and 6B, located at 220 Peach St.

For more information from the town, click here.

Related: Opinion: Why Im Voting Yes In Braintree Special Election