Arlington residents voted favorably on the override ballot question at the Annual Election held on March 28, 2026. Question 1, a Proposition 2 ½ Override of $14.8 million, will fund Town and School operating costs for the fiscal year starting July 1, 2026.
“I’m thrilled that the voters have once again expressed their strong support for preserving our current town and school services,” said Diane Mahon, Arlington’s Select Board Chair. “This vote will not only head off painful service cuts, but send a strong message that residents value these services even when we are all facing the financial pressures at home.”
“I would like to express my gratitude to both voters and taxpayers for their continued investment in Arlington’s future,” said Jim Feeney, Arlington’s Town Manager. “We will continue to work hard to deliver the high-quality services that residents have come to enjoy and appreciate, while adhering to the Select Board Override Commitments.”
Highlights of Arlington’s Select Board Override Commitments aim to exercise fiscal discipline, provide quality education and municipal services, minimize impact on taxpayers, particularly seniors and others with income challenges, and maintain a strong financial position through prudent fiscal planning. View the Select Board Commitments.
“Many thanks to Arlington voters for prioritizing the needs of our students,” said Elizabeth C. Homan, Ph.D., Arlington Public Schools Superintendent. “This vote allows us to continue to serve Arlington’s students with strategies and staffing models that have proven strong and successful over the past several years.” .”
“I am beyond thankful for the community’s support,” said Jeffrey Thielman, Arlington School Committee Chair. “The results of this override will help ensure our students receive the education they need.”
With the passage of this vote, the Town will not request another operating override prior to FY2030. An operating override permanently increases property taxes, and residents will not see the increase reflected on their tax bills until July 2026.
On March 28th, Arlington voters also approved that the Select Board be authorized to issue two additional all alcoholic beverages licenses.
Read more about both questions on the ballot, estimated tax rate increases, and the Select Board Override Commitments at arlingtonma.gov
