Exeter Municipal Budget Set for 4.8 Percent Hike

Next year's municipal budget is set for a 4.8 percent increase—which Town Manager Russ Dean attributed to health insurance and retirement costs, among other factors.

The proposed fiscal 2014 budget is $17.4 million.

Dean told Selectmen Monday health insurance costs for employees were set for a 12 percent increase. There will also be a 53rd week of payroll, which will cost an extra $150,735. Dean said the extra payroll week occurs every six years. 

The budget is subject to revisions by the Budget Committee and must be approved by voters during the annual March election.

In addition to the budget, a proposed second fire station on Epping Road could appear on the warrant. The plan for the new station has been in the works for the last 20 years.

Selectmen last year held off on including the station proposal in the warrant.