Kingston Boards Warn FY28 Override Likely

Select Board · Meeting of September 30, 2026

Kingston officials warn an override is likely needed to close a widening FY28 budget gap. Town Administrator Scott and Finance Director Carol told a joint Select Board, Finance Committee and School Committee meeting the gap could run $1.2 million to $1.6 million, driven by a $750,000 annual jump in the Plymouth County Retirement assessment and 9 percent-plus health insurance increases. "The outlook is bleak, to be absolutely honest," Carol said, warning of cuts to "services and personnel" without an override.

Select Board member Carl pushed for capping the preliminary budget at a 2 percent increase rather than 4.4 percent, and renewed calls to move new hires off the town's defined-benefit pension plan; Kingston also carries an estimated $41 million retiree health insurance liability. Finance Committee member Marsha pressed repeatedly for an override figure, but officials said it is too early, pending school transportation and Silver Lake assessment numbers. The town's general stabilization fund holds $3.1 million.

In the full story:

• Who Was There
• Organizations And Documents Referenced
• The complete report — 3,614 words

Source: the Select Board meeting of September 30, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.