Hot topic: The school district is proposing a budget increase of 6.86% from the current budget, which would take up a significant portion of taxpayer dollars as every year, leaving the town with limited funds for its expenses

Budget: The proposed operating budget for the school district is $26.6 million, up over the previous year’s $24.89 million. If approved, the school portion tax rate will increase by $1.70, which is about $510 on a $300,000 home. 

Noteworthy articles: A new support staff contract was negotiated after discussions between the Hopkinton School Board and the Hopkinton Educational Support Association, which includes $275,777 in salary increases and benefits for the upcoming year. The new contract over three years includes step increases that total $450,800. If the contract is approved, it will include dental benefits for paraprofessionals, support personnel, food service workers, and library media assistants.

Contested races: There are no contested races.

When and where: The Hopkinton School District will be held on March 9 at the Hopkinton High School at 9 a.m.