The Hingham Select Board tackled major financial decisions during its December 2nd meeting, opting to maintain a single property tax rate for Fiscal Year 2026 and hearing plans for a massive $110 million electrical infrastructure upgrade. Board members sided with the Board of Assessors in a move aimed at protecting the town’s small business community from a significant tax burden increase. Erin Delaney, from the assessors' office, explained that Hingham’s heavily residential tax base, at nearly 90%, means that “even a small benefit to residents creates a very large burden on businesses” under a split-rate system. Board of Assessors Chairman Randy Winters added that while the discussion was lengthy this year, "we were all very comfortable with recommending a single rate." Select Board Chair William Ramsey echoed these concerns, stating, "I've always voted not to split the tax rate because I would be concerned about the impact on the downtown area, which is comprised most heavily of small businesses." Board member Liz Klein agreed, noting, "Certainly we want to be business-friendly and one of our goals is economic development. So this seems aligned with that." Following that discussion, the board unanimously voted to continue its support for senior homeowners by fully funding a key tax exemption program. This program, now in its fifth year, provides relief to qualifying seniors based on the state's Circuit Breaker tax credit. "This is probably the program we're most proud about administering," Winters said, though he noted that rising property values are "disqualifying some folks." Board member Julie Staley lamented the state's criteria, calling it "a one-size-fits-all number" that may not account for Hingham's property values. The board passed two motions related to the town's tax structure: **Motion Made by Liz Klein to "adopt a residential factor of one, a single tax rate for fiscal year 2026." Motion Passed 3-0.** A second motion followed: **Motion Made by William Ramsey to "authorize the town administrator to sign the tax recapitulation form LA-5 and any other forms as necessary for the 2026 tax rate on our behalf through gateway." Motion Passed 3-0.** The board then reaffirmed its commitment to seniors: **Motion Made by William Ramsey to "set the FY26 senior means tested tax exemption amount at 100% of the amount of the circuit breaker income tax credit in accordance with section 3 of chapter 381 of the acts of 2020." Motion Passed 3-0.** The board also heard a detailed presentation from the Hingham Municipal Lighting Plant (HMLP) on a proposed $100 to $110 million infrastructure project. The plan includes a new underground transmission line from Weymouth and a new substation at the transfer station to enhance reliability and prepare for future electrical demand. Laura Burns, Chair of the Light Board, delivered welcome news to ratepayers, stating, "We do not expect there to be any further rate increases related to the construction of this project because we have already raised the rates to cover the cost of this project." HMLP General Manager Tom Moveran outlined the proposed route and noted the project will require bonding authority of approximately $60 to $80 million from Town Meeting. In other business, the board efficiently handled annual renewals and appointments. **Motion Made by Liz Klein to "approve the renewal of the common victular licenses as presented for calendar year 2026." Motion Passed 3-0.** **Motion Made by William Ramsey to "approve the renewal of the class one and class 2 auto dealers licenses as presented for calendar year 2026." Motion Passed 3-0.** **Motion Made by Liz Klein to "approve the renewal of the limousine license as presented for calendar year 2026." Motion Passed 3-0.** The board also appointed Paul Healey to the Center for Active Living Building Committee and Emma Lee to the Commission on Disabilities, both by unanimous votes. The meeting was adjourned.