The survey, online from Feb. 28 until noon March 7, attracted 1,560 visitors who began to answer the series of questions. In the end, 1,199, or 76.8 percent, completed the survey, Committee member Joseph Curro Jr. told a Town Hall audience on Tuesday, March 9.

Survey presentation here >> (.PDF) | Complete results >>

Half of the respondents said they were parents of students in elementary school; 45 percent said they were homeowners.

As to the current budget situation, 37.7 percent said they understand it, and 96.2 percent regard it as a significant challenge.

"Many, many, many called for an override," Curro said, a step that the selectmen have said they will not take this year.

Among the conclusions, respondents were guarded but concerned about the coming year.

Asked for suggestions about how to raise revenue, some of the responses drew laughter:

☺ Ticket illegally parked cars around schools.

☺ Close certain streets in winter and charge for sledding.

☺ Know any famous alumni who might bail us out? Another answered that question: a fund raiser featuring Dane Cook.