Overview
- South Hadley voters are deciding Tuesday between two property-tax overrides to close a budget gap: $9 million over four years or $11 million over five.
- Town estimates show the average $417,000 home would pay about $1,443 more by fiscal year 2031 under the $9 million plan and about $1,764 more under the $11 million plan.
- Supporters say new revenue is needed to avoid cuts to schools and police, while opponents warn the higher bills would strain seniors and could force some longtime owners to sell.
- Officials say the widely cited 50% figure refers to projected growth in the town’s total tax levy over five years under the larger plan, not a one-year jump in individual bills.
- Rising costs, including a reported 42% surge in employee health care and shrinking state aid, have squeezed the budget in a state where average property taxes are already about $7,900.