Ellington Budget Vote Results Are In

ELLINGTON, CT — Ellington voters approved the town’s 2026-27 budget Tuesday after rejecting two earlier proposals.

The budget passed with 1,357 yes votes and 1,141 no votes, according to First Selectman Laurie Burstein. Turnout was 21.23 percent.

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The vote total means the budget passed by 216 votes, with 2,498 ballots cast.

“This vote reflects our residents’ commitment to the town we love and our excellent town services,” Burstein said in a public statement after the results were announced.

Burstein said the budget will strengthen public safety, including fire, ambulance and police services, as Ellington continues to grow.

“This is a positive example of our community caring about the town we live in and a better Ellington,” Burstein said.

The approved budget followed additional reductions made by the Board of Finance after the town’s second referendum failed by 48 votes. The latest version included $522,644 in additional reductions and carried an anticipated mill rate of 25.42, according to the town.

The approved budget totals $75,724,155, including $49,199,508 for the Board of Education, $24,704,357 for general government and $1,820,290 in capital outlay.

Burstein also acknowledged concerns about rising costs.

“Everyone recognizes that increasing costs impact our community and we must continue to work to make sure that our tax money is being spent efficiently and effectively for the good of the town,” Burstein said.

Tuesday’s vote was Ellington’s third budget referendum of the year. The first referendum failed May 26, and the second failed June 9.