On behalf of the Rockport Select Board, we’re writing to share an important development as we head into this year’s municipal budget vote in June.

After weeks of collaborative work with the Budget Committee and Town staff, the Select Board has finalized a proposed Fiscal Year 2027 budget that reflects a decrease of $78,693, or 0.94%, from the prior year. This marks the first time in 16 years that Rockport’s municipal budget has declined. (Even when accounting for a significant increase in externally driven costs—such as Knox County’s 40% rise in E-911 and dispatch fees, which we have no control over—the budget still shows a net decrease of 0.48%.)

This outcome is the result of thoughtful, deliberate effort. Department heads identified cost-saving measures across all areas of town government, health insurance expenses were reduced, and the Select Board and Budget Committee conducted a detailed, line-by-line review of expenditures. The process was thorough, transparent, and collaborative.

At the same time, we want to be clear: we understand that, for many residents, property taxes remain a significant and growing burden. Even with this year’s modest decrease, the overall cost of living—and the cumulative impact of prior increases—continues to weigh heavily on households. We know this budget will not feel like relief to everyone, and we do not take that lightly. Our goal throughout this process has been to balance fiscal restraint with the responsibility to maintain essential services, and we recognize how challenging that balance is for many in our community.

While there was broad agreement on nearly all aspects of the budget, one issue prompted further discussion: the addition of a patrol officer for the Rockport Police Department. The Select Board ultimately supported this position based on new information that became available after the Committee’s recommendation.

Like many communities in our region, Rockport is facing increasing challenges in recruiting and retaining law enforcement personnel. These pressures have resulted in higher overtime costs and significant demands on existing officers, who have at times worked extended stretches or rapidly rotating shifts. Such conditions raise concerns not only for employee well-being but also for maintaining consistent public safety services.

Recent developments have underscored this need. Shortly after budget deliberations concluded, one officer left for a neighboring department and another was placed on short-term disability, reducing the patrol division to four officers—well below the level typically required to ensure reliable coverage.

From both a fiscal and operational standpoint, adding a full-time patrol officer is a prudent step. The Town projects savings of more than $14,000 in the coming year by reducing reliance on overtime, while also strengthening service continuity and resilience.

Finally, the Select Board remains committed to ongoing collaboration with neighboring public safety agencies, including those in Camden and Rockland, as well as the Knox County Sheriff’s Office, to ensure the highest level of service for our community.

We believe this budget reflects careful stewardship, responsible planning, and a sincere effort to respond both to the financial pressures facing our residents and the service expectations of our community.

Respectfully,

Town of Rockport Select Board

Denise Munger, Chair

Kim Graffam, Vice Chair

Michael Thompson

John Viehman