Halifax eyes budget override to avert police, fire, school cuts
Board of Selectmen · Meeting of March 9, 2026
Halifax budget workshop reveals deep cuts across departments without override. The Board of Selectmen and Finance Committee jointly examined budget cuts March 9 to address revenue shortfalls in police, fire, schools, and elder services. Police Chief Chaves proposed $143,000 in cuts, including $75,000 from eliminating one full-time officer and $40,000 from ending the middle school resource officer position.
Fire Chief Witham's $140,000 package would limit operations to either a fire truck or an ambulance, forcing increased reliance on mutual aid from neighboring towns. School Committee Chair Lauren Laws stated an $800,000 school cut would eliminate 12 teachers, leaving classrooms with 26 to 40 students. The MBTA noncompliance cost Halifax $400,000 in lost grants.
The Board votes on final budget and override March 10.
In the full story:
- The complete report — 358 words
Source: the Board of Selectmen meeting of March 9, 2026, reported from the official video recording and transcript.
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