Wayland Finance Committee endorses $108 million FY26 operating budget

WAYLAND — February 24, 2025 — Wayland Finance Committee endorses $107.96 million FY26 budget, defers capital committee bylaw. The committee split the omnibus appropriations article into four motions, unanimously recommending the operating budget — funded by $106,514,652 in taxation, $423,831 from enterprise funds and $1,023,178 from other sources — alongside the town-and-school capital plan and a grant-funded item. Two members abstained on the fourth motion covering roughly $1.2 million in MWRA-related enterprise capital, saying they needed more information about whether the town is committing to a $30 million to $45 million dual-source water plan. Town Finance Director Brian Keveney reported an unused levy of about $1.5 million, with a net town add of one FTE and a school reduction of 6.2 FTEs after eliminating two kindergarten sections. The committee deferred action on a proposed Capital Planning Committee bylaw after a member warned its language could conflict with state law on petitioner articles, calling for sponsors to "get it right." Members unanimously recommended Article 2 conforming the town's accessory dwelling unit bylaw to the state Affordable Homes Act.