Berlin's Budget Season Heats Up In March

BERLIN, CT — The Berlin Town Manager has submitted a proposed fiscal year 2027 budget to the Berlin Board of Finance, launching the next phase of the town’s annual budget review process.

Berlin Town Manager Ryan Curley said the proposal follows the process outlined in the town charter, which requires departments to submit budget requests to his office by mid-January.

Budget season is considered the time of year when voters have the greatest impact on their lives, as a town's spending plan determines how tax dollars are spent and, even, how high taxes will be.

“Each year, the Town of Berlin follows a structured and transparent budget process outlined in the Town Charter to ensure thoughtful financial planning and public participation,” Curley wrote in a letter to residents dated Feb. 27.

Curley said he worked with department heads in recent weeks to review requests, evaluate anticipated revenues, and assess operating needs and capital investments across town government.

At the same time, the Berlin Board of Education developed a proposed education budget in collaboration with Berlin Superintendent of Schools Brian Benigni.

Under the charter, both the town’s proposed budget and the Board of Education’s proposal will be formally presented to the Berlin Board of Finance on Monday, March 2 at 7 p.m.

The meeting begins the board’s review process, which includes public discussion and input from residents and town staff.

“Public participation is an important part of this process,” Curley wrote.

After the finance board completes its review, the budgets will move to an annual budget hearing, followed by consideration by the town council.

The final step will be a townwide referendum scheduled for April 28.

Budget documents for fiscal year 2027, including the town manager’s general fund submission to the Board of Finance, are available through the town.

Curley thanked Berlin Finance Director Kevin Delaney, Benigni, the Berlin Board of Education, and town department heads for their work on the proposals.

He encouraged residents to review the documents, attend meetings, and provide feedback.

“Your engagement helps ensure that Berlin’s budget reflects community priorities while remaining fiscally responsible,” Curley wrote.

Fiscal Year 2027 Town of Berlin Budget Documents

Town Manager's FY 2027 General Fund Budget Submission to the Board of Finance