Article 3 passed with broad support, establishing an Aid to Elderly and Disabled Taxation Fund. This initiative allows for the creation of a committee to oversee a purely voluntary fund designed to help vulnerable residents manage their property tax burdens. The fund will be populated through voluntary contributions rather than mandatory assessments.

Select Board Chair Ben Zul encouraged residents to volunteer for the newly formed Taxation Aid Committee, which will be responsible for defining eligibility and distribution rules. Warrant Committee Chair Jay Funling clarified that the fund's specifics are yet to be determined by the committee, noting, This is an entirely voluntary fund. It will only consist of money people choose to contribute.

During the discussion, Member Loy Walker inquired about who could contribute to the fund. Attorney Darren Klein explained that the state law allowing the fund usually includes a check-off option on tax bills where individuals can pledge donations, but the committee would have the latitude to expand the contribution base from there.

Motion: To accept MGL Chapter 60, Section 3D, to establish an Aid to Elderly and Disabled Taxation Fund and a Taxation Aid Committee.

Vote: Passed 197-4-0