06/05/2026
Joint Statement from First Selectman Tesoro, Board of Finance Chair Lainie McHugh, Town Council Chair Ashley Gaudiano
Trumbull Board of Finance Sets 2026–2027 Mill Rate, Balancing Community Priorities and Fiscal Responsibility
The Trumbull Board of Finance has approved a mill rate of 37.42 for Fiscal Year 2026–2027, reflecting an increase of 1.73 and a 4.85% tax rate adjustment needed to support essential services, maintain the Town’s financial strength, and continue investing in the community’s future, including a critical investment in Trumbull Public Schools. The approved budget totals $221,690,870, with a $5,670,000 increase to the Board of Education.
The decision follows months of budget review, public input, and collaboration among Town officials, department leaders, and the Board of Education. While this year’s process required difficult choices, the adopted budget reflects the reality that families and local governments are facing many of the same challenges. Our responsibility was to protect the services residents depend on, including our schools, public safety, and infrastructure, while remaining mindful of the taxpayers who fund them. We believe this budget strikes that balance, with a sizable portion of the increase tied to education funding.
Supporting our schools was a central factor in this year’s budget. A significant share of the increase is directly tied to investment in the Board of Education, reflecting our community’s commitment to maintaining high-quality education while continuing to balance the needs of taxpayers. Residents consistently tell us that excellent schools and long-term affordability are the two qualities they value most. Our challenge, and our responsibility, is to protect both. The budget we adopted reflects our effort to preserve the quality of services residents expect while ensuring that Trumbull remains financially accessible and sustainable for the entire community.
Throughout the budget process, the Board of Finance emphasized the Town’s commitment to a healthy fund balance and protecting its strong bond rating, both of which help reduce borrowing costs for future investments in schools, roads, public facilities, and infrastructure.
Town officials also pointed to several positive economic development initiatives currently underway and expressed optimism about future opportunities to continue strengthening the commercial tax base and support long-term fiscal health.
The Board of Finance and Town leadership reaffirmed their commitment to continued collaboration with the Board of Education and all municipal departments to identify efficiencies, manage costs responsibly, and maximize value for taxpayers.
Fiscal Year 2026–2027 Budget Highlights
Total Budget: $221,690,870
Board of Education Budget Increase: $5,670,000
Mill Rate: 37.42
Mill Rate Increase: 1.73 mills
Tax Rate Increase: 4.85%
