Understanding Millville’s Override: What’s at Stake on April 7

March 29, 2025

0 316 4 minutes read

Millville Faces a Pivotal Decision on April 7: Here’s What You Need to Know About the Proposed Override

On April 7, Millville residents will head to the polls to decide on a proposed $620,000 Proposition 2½ override — a measure that could shape the town’s future for years to come.

So what exactly is an override, and why does it matter? Let’s break it down.

What Is an Override?

First, let’s talk about what an Override is. Proposition 2 ½ allows a community to assess taxes beyond the automatic annual 2.5 percent increase and any additional revenue from new growth by passing an override. This action is permitted as long as the town remains below its levy ceiling—which is 2.5 percent of the full and fair cash value of all taxable property in the community.

An override does not allow a town to exceed the levy ceiling. However, when an override is approved, the levy limit is permanently increased by the override amount, and it continues to grow by 2.5 percent annually as part of the levy base.

A majority vote by the Select Board is required to place an override question on the ballot. These questions must be presented in specific dollar amounts and must state their intended purpose. For an override to take effect, it must receive a majority vote of approval from Millville residents. On April 7, Millville will be able to vote on an Override.

What This Means for Millville

Millville is looking to raise an additional $620,000 in tax revenue beyond the standard limits set by Massachusetts’ Proposition 2½ law. This override isn’t for a flashy new project — it’s meant to help the town maintain the basic services we all depend on every day, like police and fire protection, road maintenance, and support for local schools.

According to town officials, this is a critical moment. Without the override, the town would need to bring in $50 million in new taxable property to match that amount — which just isn’t realistic for a small community like Millville.

How will this affect our taxes?

If voters approve the override, property taxes will go up. The exact amount depends on your home’s assessed value. Here’s an estimated breakdown of the cost for homeowners based on assessed property values:

$450,000 home: ~$393/year ($32.75/month)

$350,000 home: ~$306/year ($25.50/month)

$400,000 home: ~$350/year ($29/month)

These figures represent permanent increases to the tax levy, meaning the higher amount becomes part of the town’s base budget moving forward. While no one likes higher taxes, supporters say this increase is necessary to keep the town running smoothly and avoid painful service cuts.

Impact on Millville’s Senior Residents

According to Neilsberg’s analysis of the U.S. Census Bureau’s American Community Survey (ACS) 2019-2023 5-Year Estimates, Millville has a population of approximately 3,176, with about 16.44% (or roughly 519 residents) aged 65 and older. For seniors living on fixed incomes, the proposed property tax increases from the override could be a significant financial burden. While programs like the Senior Circuit Breaker Tax Credit and Clause 41C exemptions offer some relief, they may not fully offset the increased tax burden.

Additionally, higher property taxes could potentially impact the value of homes in Millville, as prospective buyers often consider the total cost of ownership, including taxes.

What Happens If It Passes?

A “Yes” vote means:

Town departments — including police, fire, public works, and schools — can continue operating at current service levels.
Millville can avoid layoffs and cutbacks that might affect everything from emergency response times to classroom support.
The town can plan more confidently for the next few years, without scrambling to close budget gaps.
The override will affect all homeowners’ taxes, but it may place a heavier financial burden on those living on fixed incomes, such as seniors.

What Happens If It Doesn’t?

A “No” vote would mean:

Town officials will need to cut $620,000 from the upcoming budget — and there are no easy places left to trim.
Residents might see reductions in emergency services, education, and other public resources.
Delays or cancellations of planned maintenance and community improvements could become the norm.

Without new commercial development or significant tax base growth, the town cannot make up this funding shortfall through existing revenue sources.

The Big Picture

This vote isn’t just about next year’s budget — it’s about how Millville residents would want the town to function and grow in the future. Can Millville sustain the services that families and neighbors rely on? Are residents willing to invest in keeping Millville safe, supported, and strong? The override is seen as a short-term step to stabilize Millville’s budget while maintaining essential services. Town officials are also encouraging long-term solutions, such as economic development and pursuing state and federal grants, to help reduce reliance on property taxes.

The override vote takes place on Monday, April 7, 2025. Whether you’re voting yes or no, the most important thing is to be informed — and to vote.

Voters are encouraged to review the full override presentation and FAQs available on the town website:

Town of Millville Override Overview