Andover Town Manager Releases Proposed Budget

ANDOVER, MA — The proposed budget for Andover for the next fiscal year totals $265.9 million, a 5.18% increase over the current year.

Town Manager Andrew Flanagan released his recommended Fiscal Year 2027 Budget & Financial Plan on Feb. 6, calling it the result of months of work with town departments to plan for staffing, services and long-term needs.

In a letter included with the proposal, Flanagan said the goal is to maintain strong core services while making smart investments as community needs evolve.

The school budget makes up the largest share at $110.6 million. The town’s operating budget, which covers day-to-day services outside of water and sewer, totals $46.6 million. The town’s operating spending would rise 2.75%, while the school budget would increase 3.75%.

Among the highlights is funding to ensure Andover Fire Rescue’s third ambulance is in service full-time. The final step adds two firefighter positions and a new assistant fire chief focused on emergency medical services and training. About half of the cost is expected to be covered by ambulance billing revenue.

The plan also adds a transportation program manager to focus on road safety and traffic flow, and a capital project manager to oversee major public works projects.

The budget includes a 12% increase in employee health insurance costs.

If approved at Town Meeting, the plan is projected to increase the average single-family tax bill by about 4.39%. Officials said that figure is in line with the town’s long-term financial plan.

The budget will continue to be reviewed by the Select Board and Finance Committee before going to voters at Annual Town Meeting.

More information on the budget is available from the town.