Cadime Warns About Financial Challenges

Seekonk Town Administrator Shawn Cadime has published the town’s first monthly newsletter. One story is about the budget season: “In Seekonk’s case, the town is facing significant increases in fixed costs, including the Tri-County School Building Assessment, rising health care costs, and long-term debt, all of which are putting added pressure on the budgeting process,” Cadime wrote. “Despite these challenges, we are committed to developing a budget that strikes a balance between fiscal responsibility and addressing the town’s needs. The proposed budget and annual fees will be presented to the Board of Selectmen at their meeting on March 26th.”

Cadime also provided an update on construction of the new Tri County Regional Vocational Technical High School: “The new building, expected to open in the summer of 2027, will house 16 vocational programs with a capacity of 1,000 students. Designed for energy efficiency and sustainability, the facility will feature net zero energy, solar arrays, and modern layouts. Shared core spaces like a multi-story Student Commons, cafeteria, and large courtyard are being built to enhance the learning environment, while the school’s dynamic design will meet 21st-century educational needs.”

“Seekonk’s share of the project is based on its enrollment numbers, making the town responsible for 8.8 percent of the cost. This translates to an anticipated $1 million annual debt assessment for the next 30 years. Without dedicated funding, this assessment would place a significant strain on the town’s operational budget, limiting the ability to fund vital services for both the town and its school district.”

“Although Seekonk voters rejected the debt exclusion for this project in April 2024, the town is still legally obligated to pay its portion of the assessment. To alleviate this financial burden and ensure essential services remain intact, the Board of Selectmen will ask voters to reconsider the debt exclusion in an upcoming vote. Approving the debt exclusion would allow Seekonk to fund its share of the project without compromising the town’s operational budget. As this issue directly impacts the town’s finances and services, residents are encouraged to stay informed and participate in the upcoming vote. For any questions, please contact the Town Administrator’s Office or the Finance Director.”

The newsletter can be viewed on the town website: Seekonk-ma.gov.