2000-09-18 School Committee Minutes Financial Forum

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Financial Forum September 18, 2000 Senior Center — 49 Pleasant Street CALL TO ORDER Finance Committee Chair Carol Grimm called the meeting to order at 7:40 p.m. Present were Finance Committee members James Francis, Mary Grimmer, Richard McDonald, and Robert LeLacheur. Board of Selectmen members present were Camille Anthony, George Hines and Matt Cummings. School Committee members present were Chair Sue Cavicchi, Pete Dahl, Bill Griset, Jim Keigley, Robin D'Antona, and Tim Twomey. Library Board of Trustees present were Steve Connors, Marie Silviggi, and Donna Indelicato. Also present were Town Manager Peter Hechenbleikner, Superintendent of Schools Dr. Harutunian, Town Accountant Richard Foley and Treasurer Beth Kelps. Chapter 70 Funds There is $424,000 in additional Chapter 70 Funds available. Dr. Harutunian presented the school budget shortfalls for FY 01. There is a $310,000 shortfall in the Special Education budget and a total school budget shortfall of $609,000. Peter Hechenbleikner reviewed the Town's FY 2001 budget shortfalls totaling $702,600. This total includes the $310,000 shortfall in the Special Education budget. Between the School's Budget and the Town's Budget there is a total shortfall of $961,600. When the $424,000 Chapter 70 aid is applied there will still be a shortfall of $537,600. Richard Foley stated the Chapter 70 money should be directed to the school budget_ The State will survey the Town in the spring to see if it was given to the school department. This could determine how much future money is given to the Town. Pete Dahl stated it could be embarrassing if the Town doesn't use the money for the school department. At 8 :15 p.m. the School Committee requested a five minute recess to vote on how they would like the money appropriated. At 8:20 p.m. Carol Grimm called the meeting back to order_ On a motion by Pete Dahl, seconded by Robin D'Antona, the School Committee voted the $424,000 Chapter 70 Funds be used as stated on sheet 4A and any deviation of that would need to be revoted by the School Committee. The motion was approved by a vote of 6 -0 -0. Dr. Harutunian requested the Chapter 70 Funds be used as stated on sheet 4A.