The Finance Committee reviewed updated fiscal 2028 budget modeling Sept. 14 that members said increased the likelihood of a shortfall, although the most likely gap remained below $500,000. The modeling also showed roughly a 10% chance of ending with a surplus.
The figures remain preliminary. School payroll calculations were still being checked, and members said changes there could reduce the projected shortfall.
The committee also began reviewing the town’s developing capital plan and the effect of proposed borrowing on Wayland’s longstanding guideline of roughly $3 million to $5 million in new levy-supported capital borrowing per year.
Among the projects discussed were a $2 million high school septic project and a middle school fire alarm replacement that had grown from an earlier $200,000 upgrade planned for fiscal 2030 to a $976,000 replacement proposed for fiscal 2028. Members said the project had been accelerated after concerns arose about continued vendor support and the need for more extensive system work.
Members also discussed a proposed $2 million Massachusetts School Building Authority feasibility study involving elementary and middle school facilities. One option under consideration is to seek a debt exclusion rather than fund the project within the tax levy. The Finance Committee had not yet taken a final position, and any ballot question ultimately would require action by the Select Board.
Members referred to a $12.6 million capital total appearing in Capital Improvement Planning Committee materials, but the meeting did not establish that figure as the CIPC’s final recommendation.
