Milton’s ambitious plan to modernize its fire infrastructure faces a looming financial hurdle as rising construction costs threaten to push the Atherton station project beyond the town’s established debt limits. Town Administrator Nicholas Milano informed the Select Board that while the East Milton and headquarters projects are proceeding, they will consume nearly all of the $2.3 million annual debt service capacity allowed under the Hurley Amendment. As a result, Milano noted that the Atherton project will likely require a debt exclusion that increases taxes beyond the original Hurley Amendment projections to cover the remaining costs.

The fiscal warning comes as the town continues to grapple with a heavy reliance on residential property taxes. Cheryl Tugias, Chair of the Master Plan Implementation Committee, reported that despite a decade of monitoring town strategies, Milton remains 97% reliant on residential taxes with only 1% of land zoned for commercial use. Member Meghan Haggerty expressed frustration over the lack of commercial growth, noting, We passed an overlay district five years ago and haven't had a single application. We need to understand the impediments.

In a move to support local veterans, the board fast-tracked plans to adopt the state’s Hero Act, which provides increased property tax exemptions. The initiative is expected to cost the town between $40,000 and $50,000 annually. Member Richard Wells criticized the delay in bringing the act forward, stating, I am disappointed this is the first we are hearing of this. We owe this to our veterans. We shouldn't just honor them in November and May; we need to act on these benefits now. Motion Made by M. Haggerty to recommend bringing the Hero Act property tax exemptions to the May 2026 Annual Town Meeting or a sooner opportunity. Motion Passed (4-0).

Interim Superintendent John Phalen and School Committee Chair Amanda Serio provided a status report on the district’s transition following the recent override. Phalen emphasized a new focus on budget stewardship and financial systems, explaining that several positions were intentionally left vacant this year to ensure fiscal stability. Katie Blake and I are triangulating data between HR, payroll, and budgeting, Phalen said, adding that the district is using revolving accounts as shock absorbers to prevent year-end surprises. Vice Chair Winston Daley raised concerns about leadership turnover at Tucker Elementary, asking about the impact of unfilled roles. Phalen responded that those positions were intentionally not filled for one year to ensure fiscal stability but would be reconsidered for the FY27 budget. Member Wells praised the progress at Cunningham Elementary, where Phalen noted the first phase of a five-classroom expansion looks spectacular.

The board also authorized a new dining option for the town, greenlighting an all-alcohol liquor license for Marbella, a restaurant slated for the second floor of the Fruit Center. Attorney Ned Corkran explained that the developers reduced the bar size to 12 seats and installed a high-tech odor-control system to address neighbor concerns. The bar was moved and reduced... making it integral to the dining room rather than a separate lounge, Corkran said. Resident Amanda Albi, serving as General Manager, confirmed the restaurant would open early for breakfast. Motion Made by R. Wells to approve the license conditional upon the expiration of the ZBA appeal period on October 27. Motion Passed (4-0).

Library expansion also took a step forward as the board cleared the way for a parking feasibility study, though members insisted the Library Trustees foot the bill. I want to see a financial and revenue analysis built into the scope, said M. Haggerty, arguing that the town shouldn't build assets without exploring income opportunities. Library Trustee Christine Hodlin confirmed the group’s willingness to fund the work, stating, The Trustees are willing to pay for this study entirely if the town won't chip in. Motion Made by R. Wells to approve the feasibility study RFP to be funded by the Library Trustees. Motion Passed (4-0).

The meeting opened on a somber note with a tribute to Firefighter Daniel Thomas, who recently passed away from occupational cancer after 28 years of service. Chief William Madden described Thomas as a man who personified what it means to be a firefighter, noting his reputation for helping others at all hours. Chair Benjamin Zoll urged residents to honor the upcoming funeral procession, reminding the community that firefighting is dangerous, not just from flames but from significant occupational risks. In a lighter moment later in the evening, the board’s focus was briefly interrupted when Chair Zoll discovered a tick on his person, which was successfully removed with help from M. Haggerty before the meeting resumed.

Finally, the board moved toward a long-term agreement with RCN (Astound Broadband) for cable services. Town Administrator Milano noted the 10-year renewal offers parity as we approach the Comcast renewal. Motion Made by B. Zoll to approve the proposed non-exclusive RCN renewal license effective November 1, 2025. Motion Passed (4-0).