City & Town Newsletters

This article reviews FY2026 excess levy capacity and levy limits for cities and towns across Massachusetts. It discusses municipal property tax structure under Proposition 2 ½ with a focus on the levy ceiling and excess levy capacity.

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 from the Bureau of Local Assessment provides a helpful overview of the statutory property tax relief program known as "chapter land."

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 2026 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.

This article provides valuable tips and guidance on navigating the fiscal year-end processes, including submitting free cash for certification and setting tax rates for the upcoming fiscal year. It emphasizes the importance of accurate documentation, clear appropriations, and proactive planning to streamline the financial procedures in municipalities.

Annual analysis of the property levies, assessed values and tax rates.

This article provides information on the Massachusetts State House Notes Program, a convenient, no-cost note certification procedure for the issuance of short-term debt, long-term serial, and refunding notes by a governmental entity. Administered by the Public Finance Section of the Bureau of Accounts (BOA), the program provides an alternative to the certification of notes procedure by commercial banks.