EASTHAMPTON, Mass. (WGGB/WSHM) - Voters are set to head to the polls on Tuesday to decide the fate of a $6.9 million property tax override and city leaders warn schools and other city services could take a hit if it’s not passed.

The money is needed to close a budget gap and avoid major cuts to schools, public safety, and other services, city leaders say. The override would help stabilize the city’s finances for years to come, they argue.

“This is a choice for Easthampton residents to invest now so we don’t have to pay later,” said Mayor Salem Derby.

City leaders warn residents could see the impacts of not passing the override as soon as July 1.

“Ultimately, when you look at the impacts, if the override does fail to fire and EMS, it’s going to impact our staffing levels,” said Fire Chief Christopher Norris. “That effectively means that we’re going to lose three fulltime firefighter paramedic positions.”

Norris says those losses could lead to longer response times and greater reliance on mutual aid from neighboring communities.

The city has also warned of significant cuts to schools if the override fails. That could include staff reductions and potential losses of programs like art, music, physical education and sports.

On the other hand, local business owners say they’re concerned an override could hurt their sales.

To see how much the override could cost you, click here.

Polling locations are open from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. on Tuesday.

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