Town Administrator, Steven Solbo has issued the following response clarifying his statement regarding budget amendments by Town Meeting.
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At the Tuesday, April 28th, 2026, Board of Selectmen meeting, I made a statement indicating that any attempt to amend the budget from the Town Meeting floor to utilize Free Cash would be ruled out of order. Upon further review and consultation with Town Counsel, I would like to clarify that statement.
Town Meeting does have the authority to amend budget articles, including the ability to appropriate from available funds such as Free Cash, provided that such funds have been properly certified. The use of Free Cash is not, in itself, out of order.
However, any such amendment must still meet the requirements of a proper motion. Specifically, it must remain within the scope of the article, be germane to the subject matter, and result in a budget that is lawful and administratively workable. If an amendment were to fundamentally alter the structure of the budget, create a substitute financial plan, or result in a budget that does not comply with applicable provisions of Massachusetts General Law, including Chapter 44, it may be ruled out of order by the Moderator.
My earlier statement was intended to reflect concerns regarding maintaining a balanced and compliant budget structure, but it was overstated. I appreciate the opportunity to clarify this point and will continue working with Town Counsel and the Finance Committee to ensure that the Town Meeting process is both transparent and consistent with applicable law.
Do not hesitate to reach out with any questions by e-mail at Steven.Solbo@halifaxma.gov or calling 781-294-1316.
Thank you.
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