For the third time this season, Thomaston voters headed to the polls to weigh in on the town’s proposed budget—and this time, it passed. The final tally was 475 in favor and 296 opposed, with 771 total votes cast. That marks an increase in turnout of over 50% compared to the previous referendum on May 29th, when 502 voters participated.

The higher turnout followed increased public outreach from town officials. First Selectman Ed Mone posted on his Facebook page leading up to the vote, writing: “The Board of Finance has heard your concerns and made further reductions to the budget in response to your rejection of the budget at the last referendum. We know that we are asking a lot.” Other elected officials, including Board of Education member Nate Vieira, also took part in efforts to encourage participation. Vieira hosted an event the Saturday leading to the referendum specifically aimed at getting residents to the polls.

The final budget approved Wednesday includes a 1.85% increase in overall spending compared to the prior year. Among the most discussed changes from previous proposals were reductions to the salary adjustments initially proposed for two elected positions—the First Selectman and the Tax Collector. Officials emphasized that further changes to the Board of Education budget were constrained, as salaries for union employees and administration are set by contract and cannot be adjusted without renegotiation.

This vote marks the end of the budget process for Thomaston, including the two previous referendums. According to Board of Finance meeting minutes, each referendum cost the town approximately $3,000 to $4,000 to conduct.

Now that the budget has passed, it is finalized and will take effect on July 1. The full document can be viewed on the town’s website here.