Pepperell Select Board targets August deadline to close $200,000 budget gap

PEPPERELL — May 20, 2026 — Pepperell Select Board sets August deadline to resolve a $200,000 fiscal year 2027 budget gap. Town Administrator Andrew told the board Wednesday that a $138,000-plus reduction in the North Middlesex Regional School District assessment has trimmed the previously reported $235,000 deficit, but that energy costs rising roughly 30 percent — from about 13.4 cents per kilowatt-hour to a projected 18 to 19 cents under a new contract — would add approximately $150,000 in spending, nearly wiping out the school savings. Health insurance costs are tracking about $30,000 under budget. The administrator said any shortfall above $75,000 will require a draw on reserve funds, and that staff layoffs remain a last resort. The board unanimously approved the appointment of Denean Primus to the Cultural Council for a term through June 30, 2029, and voted to support a dedication plaque honoring Pepperell Community Media founder Richard Potts at the Nissitissit Middle School video studio. A town-wide survey of 161 respondents found more than 75 percent of residents believe the town is in financial trouble, and 66 percent said they would support regionalization of services even if Pepperell is not the host community.