Questions and answers in Saugus

A Saugus landmark, the Hilltop Steakhouse on Route 1, is one the nation's biggest restaurants. And that's where Saugus residents are invited on April 10 to learn about a proposed $5.2 million override, the largest being considered so far by any Bay State community this spring.

The Saugus Chamber of Commerce will host the information forum, from 7:30 to 9 p.m. Organizers hope to lure a Boston television journalist to moderate, though no one is yet confirmed. Saugus officials, including Town Manager Andrew Bisignani and School Superintendent Keith Manville, will answer questions from the audience.

Saugus, a town of about 26,000 people, must raise revenue in fiscal 2008, or face major layoffs and service cuts, such as closing the town's library and senior center. Saugus voters will decide April 24 in a special election.

If approved, the average property tax bill is expected to increase $400 next year.

-- Kathy McCabe