Vernon's 2020-21 Budget Proposal — By The Numbers

VERNON, CT — Here is a look at the budget endorsed by Mayor Daniel Champagne and approved by the Vernon Town Council this week for the 2020-21 fiscal year — by the numbers.

A budetary public hearing and the annual town meeting are scheduled for Tuesday, April 28, beginning at 7 p.m. via teleconference and a drive-through vote.

The numbers are:

The Bottom Line

• Total propsed FY2021 Budget: $94,100,096

The Breakdown

• General Government: $31,489,755
• Education: $54,516,892
• Capital Improvements and Debt Service: $8,093,449

The Difference

• Total proposed increase from the current fiscal year: $679,186
• General Government: $32,888
• Education: $646,298

Revenues

• $94,100,096

Tax Impact

• Proposed tax increase: Zero percent
• Current tax rate: 39.63 mills

Vernon Town Administrator Michael Purcaro touted several budget highlights:

• Second Year of zero-based budgeting
• Significant savings negotiated for all insurances (health, dental, general liability, and workers comp)
• Significant savings in debt services due to a recent town meeting-approved budget transfer
• Solid waste tipping fees increase
• Two new municipal positions (mason and park maintainer)
• Continued economic growth
• Credit ratings remain solid, according to agencies
• Shared services between the town and board of education (i.e. maintenance, custodial, finance, information technology)
• Strong reserves, manageable fixed costs, and proactive spending controls to address potential shortfalls