The Duxbury Finance Committee tackled a packed agenda ranging from cemetery expansions to the structural future of the town’s tax levy. Trustee Bob Hayes presented a plan for a thirty-year expansion of Mayflower Cemetery, noting that while cremations are rising, the demand for traditional headstone plots remains steady. Hayes explained, Our one is that it is required by law. The town has to do it. He assured the committee that the project is funded entirely by cemetery funds, not taxpayers. Following the presentation, Motion Made by Jackson S. Kent., Jr. to accept article 20 as presented. Vote Passed 8-0.

Planning Director Matthew Heins introduced a proposed bylaw to regulate Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) following a controversial project on West Street. Heins argued that Duxbury must designate zones for these facilities to maintain local control, stating, If we don't regulate it, then essentially like we're vulnerable and we can't prevent it anywhere. Committee members expressed hesitation regarding the safety and location of these systems. Ashley Maher questioned the residential impact, asking, Is that an accurate statement? while Theodore J. Flynn voiced concerns about potential hazards, noting, I'd like to know what those risks are with this battery storage concept. Chairman Betsy Sullivan added that residents will seek clarity, saying, I think that they're going to be looking for detail on it, whether this applies to commercial or personal use. The committee opted to hold the article for further information.

The conversation shifted to critical infrastructure as the Water Superintendent requested $1.6 million for the design and permitting of PFAS and iron remediation at town wells. Finance Director Mary MacKinnon clarified, This article is exclusively PFAS. despite some overlap with mineral treatment. The committee emphasized the urgency of meeting federal EPA deadlines. Motion Made by Jackson S. Kent., Jr. to approve article 22 as submitted. Vote Passed 8-0. The committee also addressed a historic district addition. Motion Made by Jackson S. Kent., Jr. to approve article 23 as presented. Vote Passed 8-0. Two citizens' petitions were also considered: Motion Made by Jackson S. Kent., Jr. to approve article 24 as presented. Vote Failed 0-8. and Motion Made by Jackson S. Kent., Jr. to approve article 25 as presented. Vote Failed 1-7.

The primary debate centered on the FY27 Budget Override and the concept of excess levy capacity. Town Manager René Read presented options to either stick to a bare-bones $1.89 million override or add a buffer to ensure future sustainability. Read explained, That excess levy capacity... that's the sustainability factor for the budget. Kathleen Glynn expressed doubt regarding public support for a larger number, stating, I just don't think that the trust level is such that they're going to say, 'Hey, we're going to give you a three-year leash.' However, Friend S. Weiler, Sr. argued for the buffer, saying, I think the right decision is to add some additional capacity. Mark Hokanson pointed to deeper issues, noting, I think if I were pitching this, it's not... add some critical positions. It's there is a structural issue with the budget. Al Hoban warned of the messaging challenge, remarking, Most people will look at this as like either a separate fund or the ability to raise taxes every year. The committee remained split on whether to recommend a safety net or a leaner figure to ensure ballot success.