City Council rejects Mayor's FY2027 budget amid deficit concerns.
Fitchburg City Council rejects Mayor's $220.8 million fiscal 2027 budget. In an 8-1 vote, the council rejected the operating budget for the General Fund, Water Enterprise, Wastewater Enterprise, and Airport Fund, citing an unforeseen structural deficit rooted in health insurance cost spikes and the
City Council · Meeting of May 28, 2026
Fitchburg City Council rejects Mayor's $220.8 million fiscal 2027 budget. In an 8-1 vote, the council rejected the operating budget for the General Fund, Water Enterprise, Wastewater Enterprise, and Airport Fund, citing an unforeseen structural deficit rooted in health insurance cost spikes and the city's growing dependence on free cash reserves. Council President Anthony Zarrella emphasized the need for "hard choices" and budget reduction to preserve capital funds and achieve long-term sustainability.
Councilor Joseph Bowen cast the sole dissenting vote. The council simultaneously tabled eight related appropriation and funding orders pending budget resolution.
In the full story:
- The complete report — 290 words
Source: the City Council meeting of May 28, 2026, compiled from the official minutes.
Members read the rest of this story and every Fitchburg meeting we cover, in full.
Become a memberAlready a member? Sign inA 30-day free trial needs a payment method. After it, your membership renews at the price shown at checkout until you cancel, which you can do anytime from your account. Subscription terms
Share this brief
Know someone in Fitchburg who follows town government? Share Townbrief Fitchburg: they can sign up free.