Waterford ― The finance board Wednesday night began approving pieces of the proposed 2024-25 general government budget, which features a 3.65% increase over the current budget.

The Board of Selectmen previously approved the $49.6 million general government budget ― which includes $10.7 million for capital and debt service ― on Feb. 6. Meanwhile, the school board approved a $57.6 million school budget and its 5.6% increase last week.

The proposed government and school budgets combined total $107. 2 million, and represent an increase of approximately 5.33% over last year’s budget, according to finance board member John Sheehan.

At the meeting, the board approved five budgets for police, fire, contingency, the library , and the board’s own $80,713 budget, after questioning department heads about specifics.

Police Chief Marc Balestracci told board members his $7.1 million budget strikes a good balance between being mindful of taxpayers pockets, and their safety.

The department budget would increase $285,042, or 4.39%, due largely to the addition of three police officers.

Additionally, police officers and civilian staff who work in the department will receive 2.75% raises beginning July 1.

Meanwhile, Director of Fire Services Michael Howley said his $3.6 million budget, an increase of 2.85%, “addresses the need for firefighters” by adding a full-time firefighter. Other large increases include contracted fees for fire hydrant maintenance, maintenance of equipment and trucks, and repairs for two rescue boats.

Library Director Christine Johnson presented a budget with no increase, which she said was requested by First Selectman Rob Brule. She said the library’s Board of Trustees will help fund any increased spending.

Other department budgets still to be reviewed by the finance board include $7.8 million for the Retirement Commission, $5.1 million for public works and the $1.5 million recreation and parks budget.

Public Works Director Gary Schneider said the department’s 1.83% increase came mostly from having to pay an extra $7 per ton for garbage disposal.

“And we have about 11,000 tons that we get rid of,” he said of the approximately $79,000 budget increase.

Recreation and Parks Program Coordinator Tim Cieplik said most of his department’s increase is due to raises for full-time employees, higher minimum wage for about 80 employees at the town’s beaches, and general maintenance.

Sheehan said the Board of Finance will hold budget hearings throughout March before sending its finalized budget to the Representative Town Meeting for final approval.

d.drainville@theday.com