Hanover Residents Head to Town Meeting Monday to Decide Budget

Hanover voters will gather Monday, May 5, to deliberate warrant articles at the Special and Annual Town Meetings, with critical decisions on the town’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget topping the agenda.

The meetings will take place at Hanover High School, 287 Cedar Street. The Special Town Meeting begins at 7:00 p.m., followed by the Annual Town Meeting at 7:30 p.m. Registration opens at 6:00 p.m., and residents must check in before entering. Only registered Hanover voters who are physically present may participate.

Articles 8 and 9, which outline the base operating budget and a proposed $3.7 million override budget, have become the focal point of debate. If the override budget is approved, it would still require voter approval in the May 17 Annual Town Election in order to be funded. 

At a recent State of the Town breakfast, Select Board Chair Vanessa O’Connor said, “This override is about protecting our long-term vitality.” 

Budget Director Jim Hoyes emphasized the town’s long-term planning needs, warning that decisions made now will shape Hanover’s fiscal landscape for years to come. “Decisions we make today have implications for the next seven years,” Hoyes said.

To support family participation, childcare services will be provided on-site. Parents must pre-register through the FACE Family Portal. https://facehanover.myhalix.io/pages/programs.hanovertownmeeting

Residents are encouraged to review the full warrant and meeting materials in advance at hanover-ma.gov.