TOWN OF ALBION is changing its fiscal year!

What's changing

In 2027, Albion will be moving its budget year from February–January to July–June. This matches the schedule the state, schools, and county already use, and is how most Maine towns already operate.

Why we're making this change

• We'll know our numbers earlier, since our schedule will match the state and schools.
• The budget will be approved before the year starts, not after it's already underway.
• It smooths out the Town's cash flow — we tend to run low on money each summer before tax revenue comes in, and this change reduces the need to borrow to cover that gap.
• Once we're on the new schedule, tax bills will come in two payments instead of one, which should be easier on most households.

What happens between now and then

Our current budget, approved this past March, already covers the Town through January 2027. Nothing requires a town vote this year. In early 2027, we'll hold a short town meeting to approve a small budget covering just a 5-month bridge period (February 2027 through June 2027) before the new schedule fully takes effect. In February 2027, you'll get a separate notice, and a tax bill insert with full details — due dates, amounts, and what to expect — once that town meeting happens.

One thing to know now

This change affects timing only — when the budget is approved and when bills are due. It does not change how your tax is calculated. That's still based on your property's assessed value and the tax rate set through the Town's normal budget process, the same as always.

Questions?

Stop by the Town Office at 22 Main Street, call 207-437-2900, or check our website. We'll post updates there as the January 2027 meeting gets closer.

Fiscal Year Change — Frequently Asked Questions

Albion is changing its budget year from February–January to July–June, to match the state, schools, and county budget calendars. Below are answers to common questions about what this means for you.

The Basics

What is changing?

Albion's budget year is moving from February 1–January 31 to July 1–June 30. This is the 12-month period the Town uses for budgeting and spending — it's separate from the calendar year.

Why is the Town doing this?

Four main reasons. First, it matches our schedule to the state, schools, and county, so we know their numbers before we finish our own budget. Second, it lets us approve the budget before the year starts, instead of after it's already underway, which is what happens now. Third, it smooths out the Town's cash flow — right now we tend to run low on money each summer before tax revenue comes in, and this change reduces the need to borrow to cover that gap. Fourth, it lets us bill taxes in two payments instead of one, which is easier on most households.

Who decided to make this change?

The Selectboard voted to change the budget year. State law allows the Selectboard to set the Town's budget year on its own. A town meeting vote is still required to approve the short bridge budget described below and the new tax due dates.

Will my taxes go up because of this?

No. The fiscal year change doesn't affect how your tax is calculated — it's still based on your property's assessed value and the tax rate set through the Town's normal budget process, exactly as before. Changing the fiscal year only changes timing: when the budget is approved and when bills are due. The actual amount on any given bill depends on the budget voters approve at town meeting, the same as it would in any other year.

The Bridge Period

What is the “bridge budget”?

It's a short, one-time budget that covers just 5 months — February through June 2027 — to bridge the gap between Albion's current budget (which already runs through January 31, 2027) and the start of the new July–June schedule. Voters will approve it at a short town meeting in early 2027.

Will I get a different tax bill because of this?

Yes. You'll receive one tax bill covering just the 5-month bridge period (February–June 2027). Because it covers fewer months than a normal annual bill, it should be smaller than what you're used to seeing. After that, your tax bills will follow the new July–June schedule going forward, sized like a normal full year.

When is the town meeting to approve this?

The Selectboard will set the date for early 2027, ahead of February 1. It will be posted at Town Hall and on this website, along with the normal public notice, ahead of time.

Is anything happening this year (2026)?

No. Albion's current budget, approved in March 2026, already covers the Town through January 31, 2027. There's nothing requiring a town vote in 2026. The next step is the short town meeting in early 2027.

Your Tax Bill

Why will I be seeing two due dates instead of one beginning with the 2027-28 fiscal year?

Starting with the first full budget year under the new schedule (July 2027–June 2028), tax bills will be split into two payments: half due September 30, half due March 31. This spreads the cost out over time instead of asking for the full amount at once. The 5-month bridge bill is separate and will be due April 30, 2027.

Can I still pay my whole bill at once?

Yes. You're always welcome to pay early or pay the full amount in one payment if that's easier for you. The two due dates are an option, not a requirement.

What happens if I miss a due date?

The town meeting that approves the new schedule will also set an interest rate for late payments, the same as under the current system. Specific rates and dates will be included with your tax bill.

Town Meetings and Elections

Did I miss an election?

No. Moving the town meeting date does not create a gap in any elected official's term. Current officers continue serving until the next regularly scheduled election, which will now be held in June. This is a long-standing, well-established practice under Maine law, not something new or unusual.

When will town meetings and elections happen from now on?

Starting in 2027, the Annual Town Meeting and the election of officers will be held in June each year, lining up with the start of the new July 1 budget year.

More Information

Where can I get more details?

Visit the Town Office at 22 Main Street, call 207-437-2900, or check this website for updates as the transition moves forward. Notices will also be posted at the Town Office.

Who do I contact with a specific question about my bill?

Reach out to the Town Office directly. They can look at your specific account and answer questions this general FAQ can't.