City & Town Newsletters

This article from the DLS Bureau of Accounts provides tips for local officials as they prepare and present the FY2026 Tax Rate Recap for approval.

This article discusses the resources and training available for new municipal finance officials, particularly focusing on the role of the Bureau of Accounts in overseeing financial management and providing guidance to municipalities in Massachusetts.

This article provides a comprehensive resource for local officials and interested taxpayers regarding the property tax abatement process.

This article is the first of a two-part series on equalized valuations, the fair cash value of all property in a city or town subject to local taxation (not including exempt properties) as of January first as determined by the Commissioner of Revenue under G.L. c. 58, §§ 9 -10C. It provides historical background, explains the basic components of the EQV process, and displays multi-year trends across the Commonwealth.

This article is the second of a two-part series on equalized valuations, the fair cash value of all property in a city or town subject to local taxation (not including exempt properties) as of January first as determined by the Commissioner of Revenue under G.L. c. 58, §§ 9 -10C. It examines data trends and provides helpful context related to EQV.

This article discusses strategies for semi-annual billing communities that have not adopted Chapter 653 to expedite their tax rate setting process by submitting property valuation forms earlier in the calendar year, thereby potentially reducing approval times. It also highlights the implications of adopting Chapter 653 and the importance of timely submissions for efficient tax billing.

This article reviews municipal enterprise fund data submitted to the DLS Bureau of Accounts focusing on current fund types, an explanation of budgeted costs and revenues, and fiscal year results of operation.

This article provides guidance for new local officials on the importance of financial policies, capital planning, and multi-year forecasting in ensuring the financial health and sustainability of their municipalities. It emphasizes how these tools foster transparency, accountability, and strategic decision-making, ultimately leading to responsible governance and community trust.

This article is part of the 2025 New Officials edition. In it, the Financial Management Resources Bureau highlights the importance of establishing robust financial policies, developing a comprehensive capital plan, and implementing a multi-year forecast in order to ensure a community's strong fiscal condition.

Next issue of reviewing areas of fiscal stress using a municipalities debt burden.