Milford Town Meeting To Consider Budget Increase, $2.75M Settlement

MILFORD, MA — The Milford Finance Committee is preparing for the upcoming Annual Town Meeting on May 18, where residents will review a proposed operating budget that officials say reflects a restrained increase despite ongoing financial pressures.

The committee, made up of 15 volunteer residents, works alongside town financial staff and department leaders to help develop Milford’s annual budget and review major financial decisions.

According to the committee, the proposed operating budget for the coming fiscal year includes an overall expense increase of 2.5 percent, which members described as significantly lower than increases seen in recent years. Officials said the budget was developed while also accounting for a substantial reduction in state aid.

In addition to operating expenses, one of the largest items expected before Town Meeting is a proposed $2.75 million settlement tied to an employment discrimination claim involving the Milford Police Department, according to the Milford Finance Committee.

Finance Committee members said they carefully reviewed the matter before recommending approval of the settlement, calling it “the most responsible path forward under the circumstances.”

Town officials acknowledged Milford continues to face financial challenges that many communities across Massachusetts are also experiencing. Residents are encouraged to attend Town Meeting and participate in the budget process.

The Finance Committee also noted there are several open volunteer positions within town government and encouraged residents to consider getting involved, saying service opportunities can be “more approachable and manageable than many people realize.”

The Finance Committee said it plans to provide another update following Town Meeting.

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