Early Tax Hike Plan Unveiled In Farmington As Budget Deliberations Start

FARMINGTON, CT — The town's budget process is expected to increase taxes this year, though how much has yet to be finalized.

The Farmington Town Council, on March 10, opened public review of a proposed $142.6 million budget for fiscal year 2026–27, drawing resident concerns about spending priorities, capital projects, and support for local services.

Farmington Town Manager Kathleen A. Blonski presented a recommended general fund budget of $142,579,394, an increase of $5.8 million, or 4.25 percent, over the current year.

The proposal includes $86.9 million for the Farmington Board of Education, a 4.35 percent increase, and $37.5 million for town operations, up 2.79 percent.

The plan calls for a property tax rate of 27.50 mills, a 0.88-mill increase.

For a home assessed at $301,455, that would translate to an annual tax bill of about $8,290, which is $265 more than this year's taxes.

Farmington Superintendent of Schools Jess Giannini presented the school district’s budget, noting projected student enrollment is expected to remain generally stable over the next several years.

During the public hearing on the early budget proposal, residents and local advocates raised questions about both spending increases and potential reductions.

Paul Krell of Meadow Road asked whether funding for an Ad Hoc Sidewalk Committee survey was included in the proposal. Blonski said it was not.

Krell also asked about school enrollment projections, prompting Giannini’s response that enrollment is expected to remain level.

Adam Avery, speaking on behalf of the nonprofit HOPE Partners, urged the council to maintain funding for the organization.

Avery said the nonprofit relies on $40,000 in town support to continue operations and warned proposed cuts would significantly affect its services.

Barbara Blejewski, a Farmington resident, described how HOPE Partners supports her independence, including assistance with daily activities and navigating the community.

Patricia Delaney advocated for a dedicated budget line for the Farmington Senior Center, citing weekly participation ranging from 880 to 1,000 people and services including transportation, counseling, fitness programs, and tax assistance.

Other residents questioned major capital spending proposals.

Tim Kelly criticized what he described as “nice to have” projects, including a $7 million plan related to the Old Town Hall Annex and a proposed $15 million effort to install air conditioning in all classrooms across four schools.

Kelly raised concerns about costs, energy use, and the town’s debt levels, suggesting officials wait for a comprehensive facilities study before proceeding with large-scale upgrades.

The hearing was regarding the town manager's budget, with the document now being looked at by the council, which took one formal action related to the budget.

The town council unanimously voted to schedule a public hearing on its proposed budget for April 6 at 7 p.m. at the Farmington Town Hall Annex.

Council Chairman Brian Connolly said the town’s immediate focus is on finalizing the budget.

Additional milestones include the annual town meeting on April 20 and a referendum scheduled for April 30.

For the minutes of the March 10 Farmington Town Council meeting and the town manager's budget report, click on this link.