New Milford Mayor Pete Bass has presented a budget proposal to the Town Council and Board of Finance for their review.  He suggests reducing the mill rate by 2.47 percent.  Bass says this would be the first time in 39 years that the t ax rate has been reduced for two consecutive years. 

The $105.1 million proposal includes $39.26 for the town and $65.8 million for the schools.  Bass recommended using the proposed Board of Education budget as presented. 

There is a focus on Sarah Noble School and New Milford High School roofs, as well as the library modernization project.  The budget also includes money to improve roads and other town infrastructure as well as manpower for the Social Services Department, Parks and Rec and the Youth Agency.  Bass says this will help to address childhood depression, isolation, vaping and other issues. 

The Town Council and Board of Finance will hear from Department heads virtually starting next Tuesday about different aspects of the proposed budget.