What’s on the June ballot in Scarborough and Westbrook?

Maine residents will head to the polls on Tuesday, June 9, to cast their votes on local school district budgets for the upcoming fiscal year.

These annual budget votes are a cornerstone of local democracy in Maine, giving community members a direct voice in how their property tax dollars are allocated to education. The budgets on the ballot will detail proposed spending for the 2025-2026 school year, outlining plans for teacher salaries, classroom resources, facility maintenance, and student programs.

Voters will be asked to approve or reject the budget as presented by each school board. In many communities, the budget is also broken down by specific warrant articles, allowing for separate votes on particular expenditures, such as funding for new technology, transportation costs, or special education services.

The outcome of these votes directly impacts the local education system and can influence the school district's tax levy, which is a significant component of property tax bills. If a budget is rejected, the school board typically must revise and resubmit it for another vote.

Election officials encourage residents to review the budget documents, which are often available on school district websites and at town offices, before casting their ballots. Understanding the proposed allocations is key to participating meaningfully in this vital civic responsibility.