By Kolby LaMarche

Voting in the Town Meeting Day election is now underway as mail-in ballots begin arriving in residents’ mailboxes this week and next, marking the start of voting for key local issues set for decision on March 3. 

This year’s ballot features four significant items, many of which BDN has covered, with each addressing critical aspects of city operations.

First, a proposed five-cent increase in the police and fire tax rate seeks to close a multi-million-dollar budget shortfall, potentially generating additional revenue for public safety services strained by rising costs and demands. Proponents argue it’s essential for maintaining response times and staffing levels, though it raises questions about fiscal management in a city already grappling with economic pressures.

Second, voters will weigh in on the approval of the Burlington School District’s budget for fiscal year 2027. Funding for education programs, teacher salaries, and infrastructure, was expanded for next year, despite lowered enrollment fluctuations and state aid uncertainties. Passage would affirm the district’s financial plan, while rejection could force revisions and potential cuts.

Third, a charter change to formalize the Office of Racial Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (REIB) aims to embed this role permanently in the city’s structure. Established informally in recent years, the office promotes diversity initiatives and equity policies. The proposal, unanimously approved by the City Council in November 2025, would ensure its continuity no matter a future mayor’s agenda.

Finally, the ballot includes a measure on compensating school board members, who currently serve voluntarily. 

If approved, it would introduce stipends to recognize their time and expertise, potentially attracting a broader pool of candidates but adding to the district’s expenses, supporters say.

The City Clerk’s office confirmed that all active registered voters were automatically sent absentee ballots by February 11, streamlining access, city officials say – a process started during COVID-19. 

The mailing follows the “new” standard procedure under state election laws, where ballots are dispatched approximately three weeks before Election Day. Not all towns follow Burlington’s lead, however, and some still require in-person voting or requested absentee ballots. 

Voters who haven’t received theirs by February 18 are advised to contact the Clerk Treasurer’s Office for a replacement. 

To ensure votes count, residents must carefully complete the ballot, sign the affidavit envelope, and seal it properly—failure to do so could invalidate the submission, just as in years before.

Return options include secure drop boxes at locations like City Hall, the Department of Public Works on Pine Street, Fire Station #2 on North Avenue, the Robert Miller Community Center, and Fire Station #3 on Mansfield Avenue. 

Ballots can also be dropped off at City Hall during business hours through February 27, or until 1 p.m. on March 2. For those preferring in-person voting, polls open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on March 3 at designated wards, with same-day registration available.

Burlington Daily News will continue monitoring developments, including turnout trends and post-election impacts, as the city charts its course for the year ahead.