Town Meeting Night 3 recap: FY26 budget approved, pickleball debate begins

May 8

Written By Taylor Gregory

(6-7 minute read)

Date: Monday, May 5, 2025

Time: 7:30 pm

Location: Performing Arts Center at Reading Memorial High School (62 Oakland Road)

Watch the full meeting here on RCTV’s Youtube page.

Introduction

On Monday night, Reading’s Annual Town Meeting continued with an in-depth review and debate over the town’s proposed Fiscal Year 2026 (FY26) budget and the beginning of a spirited discussion on Article 14 - the proposed pickleball courts project.

Town Accountant Sharon Angstrom and School Superintendent Dr. Thomas Milaschewski delivered presentations offering a comprehensive look at the town’s financial standing and how investments in education have shaped progress in Reading’s public schools.

Key takeaways

FY26 Budget approved
After a robust discussion, Town Meeting members approved a $146.4 million budget for FY26, which begins July 1, 2025. The vote reflected consensus on the need to continue supporting essential services, and educational progress, while acknowledging rising costs in areas like health insurance and special education.
Pickleball courts spark debate
Discussion on Article 14 - which proposes the construction of new pickleball courts on Symonds Way - began but was not completed on Monday night. Town Meeting tabled the article for further discussion during Night 4, scheduled for the Hawkes Fieldhouse.
Mixed opinions on pickleball funding
While some members voiced enthusiastic support for the project, others raised concerns about the funding model, particularly the use of funds from the Recreation Department and the Burbank Ice Arena. Many called for better data on usage and a clearer plan for long-term financial sustainability.

Article 11: FY26 budget overview

Town Accountant Sharon Angstrom opened the article with a financial overview, noting past overrides in 1993, 2003, and 2018, and reviewing recent debt exclusions that funded Reading Memorial High School (2003), Wood End Elementary School (2003), and the Reading Public Library (2013).

Dr. Thomas Milaschewski provided an update on Reading Public Schools, highlighting both fiscal strategies and long-term investments:

Revenue growth: Through programs like School Choice, the district has welcomed tuition-paying students from neighboring communities.
Cost management: Strategic investment in early intervention and in-district special education programs have helped contain rising costs.
Wellness & support: The district continues to fund post-pandemic support services for students’ social and emotional well-being.

A specific concern was raised regarding a $100,000 line item in the Capital Budget for pickleball, which ties into Article 14. One member moved to strike the line, but it was clarified that the item would be removed if Article 14 fails, prompting members to keep discussion on funding for when Article 14 is officially considered.

Article 14: Pickleball courts proposal

Assistant Town Manager Jayne Wellman presented background on the project, explaining the town’s decade-long history with the sport. Originally slated for Birch Meadow Phase II, the pickleball courts were removed due to neighbor concerns about noise. The Symonds Way Exploratory Committee (SWEC) recommended the current site, adjacent to the town gun range, as well as the proposed site of the Reading Center for Active Living (ReCAL).

Key details of the proposal include:

Base bid: Six (6) ADA accessible courts, small parking area, lighting infrastructure
Alternatives: A seventh (7th) court and lighting installation
Community support: The Reading Pickleball Players Association (RPPA) has raised $225,000 in donations to help offset costs

Support for the project

Several Town Meeting members praised the project, commended RPPA’s fundraising efforts, and shared personal stories of how pickleball had improved their physical health and social engagement. They framed the projects as a chance to invest in wellness and inclusivity, especially for older adults and those with disabilities.

Questions & concerns

Other members expressed caution, raising questions about:

Actual demand and current usage at the current courts, which are currently shared with tennis courts at Memorial Park and behind Reading Memorial High School. The courts behind RMHS will be replaced with basketball courts as part of the Birch Meadow Phase II project.
How usage fees would be implemented and whether non-residents should be charged more
The appropriateness of using Burbank and Recreation funds
The need for stronger data to justify public investment

Town staff clarified that a user fee structure can be developed, with possible different rates for residents and non-residents to support operational costs and help recoup expenses over time.

What’s next

Discussion of Article 14 will continue on Town Meeting Night 4 tonight, Thursday, May 8, in the Hawkes Fieldhouse. Members will resume debate on the pickleball project before moving on to the remaining articles.

Stay tuned for continued coverage by The Reading Observer as Town Meeting nears its final decisions for this session.