On Tuesday, March 14, Newton voters will be asked at a special election to vote on whether to approve 3 ballot measures.
This Newton City election is asking voters for permission to raise property taxes above the 2.5% ceiling imposed by Massachusetts’ Proposition 2 ½, a so-called “override”. By law, increases above the 2.5% cap must be approved by a majority of voters.
The proposed override consists of three questions. Two questions would provide for debt exclusions for the construction of the Countryside and Franklin Elementary Schools. The third question seeks an additional $9 million for the purpose of funding municipal and school operating and capital expenses, more than half of which will be allocated to addressing space needs at the Horace Mann Elementary School and other school related expenses. It would also provide funding to fix roads and sidewalks and improve street and sidewalk safety, allow the City to advance sustainability measures, climate resiliency and electrify buildings, care for city parks, athletic fields, courts and playgrounds, plant and care for trees, and support Newton’s older residents.
Below are the three Override questions being proposed, as well as resources from the City regarding the proposed Override. Additional information about how and where to vote will be forthcoming when it is available.
