May 21, 2026
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Branford, North Branford & Northford Vol. XXX Iss. 21
Budget Adopted Despite Strong ‘No’ Vote By Laura Robida Managing Editor NORTH BRANFORD
North Branford’s 2026-27 budget will take effect despite overwhelming voter opposition at the polls May 12 because turnout failed to meet the threshold required under the town charter. According to referendum results released
by the town, 916 voters rejected the $65,859,026 spending plan as “too high,” while 130 voted to accept the budget and 27 rejected it as “too low.” A total of 1,073 residents cast ballots out of 9,560 eligible electors, resulting in turnout of 11.2%. The adopted budget carries a mill rate of 28.91 mills, up from 27.61 in the current fiscal year, an increase of 1.3 mills or 4.71%.
A mill rate represents the amount of tax paid for every $1,000 of assessed property value. Under the proposed rate, taxpayers would pay about $28.91 in taxes for every $1,000 of assessed value. A home assessed at $200,000, for example, would carry an annual tax bill of approximately $5,782 See Budget Adopted page 9
Spring in Bloom Susan Quinn, center, shops during the Branford Garden Club and Branford Community Gardens’ Annual Spring Plants, Flowers & Seedlings Sale on the front lawn of Blackstone Library on May 16. The sale featured cut flower bouquets, native plants, perennials, herbs, vegetable and flower seedlings, and annuals.
Photo by Wesley Bunnell/ The Sound
Chris Beckert will serve as grand marshal for this year’s Memorial Day parade in Branford.................2
Built to Win T-birds boys lacrosse is eyeing a deep postseason run...................20
Remembering the Revolution A series celebrating the nation’s 250th anniversary continues........23
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