Bedford · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Bedford public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
DERA Diesel Grants for Town Equipment
Federal and state money is available to replace diesel equipment with electric alternatives. The commission will check the town's Capital Improvement Plan for upcoming purchases — loaders, skid steers, generators — that could pair with a grant application.
2027 Non-Union Employee Compensation
The council set new pay ranges for the town's roughly 50-60 non-union employees, shifted up 2.45% with regional inflation. Actual raises come later through the budget process.
Trustees of the Trust Funds annual report
The board that stewards the town's donations and $12.7 million in capital reserves reported strong returns — 12.1% on private trusts and 4% on reserves. That earned interest reduces how much taxpayers get billed for vehicles and building projects in future budgets.
PILOT agreement with Dartmouth Hitchcock Clinic
Dartmouth Hitchcock's refurbished building at 25 South River Road is tax-exempt as a nonprofit, so the Town negotiated a payment in lieu of taxes equal to half the tax rate for five years, extendable five more. It's the second DHC PILOT in Bedford.
Keno and Games of Chance Prohibition Ballot Questions
New state law flips keno to opt-out, so the council put both prohibition questions on the March ballot — a way to reclaim local control over gambling in town.