Proposed Budget Would Raise Key Rate In Stonington

STONINGTON, CT — Officials in Stonington have released a proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year, outlining spending priorities and a potential tax impact for residents.

The proposed 2026–2027 budget includes a mill rate increase of 1.11, rising from 18.18 to 19.29 — a 6.1 percent jump, according to town officials.

Leaders said the plan reflects “months of work, collaboration and compromise” among the First Selectman’s office, town departments, the Board of Finance and the Board of Education.

Several key factors are driving the increase. The town is ramping up capital improvements, including rehabilitating the town's 17 bridges, while also fully funding road paving across roughly 110 miles of streets.

The budget also adds police staffing to keep pace with new housing development, though officials noted the additional tax revenue tied to that growth is not expected until a future year.

In addition, debt service costs are rising following a $15.5 million bond issued for long-term projects, many of which had previously been deferred.

Despite the proposed increase, officials said Stonington continues to rank among towns with lower mill rates compared to other nearby towns and maintains a AAA bond rating, which helps reduce borrowing costs.

A public hearing on the budget is scheduled for March 30 at Stonington High School along with additional steps — including a town meeting and referendum vote — planned before final adoption.

More information is available at the town's website.