2007-10-17 School Committee Minutes - Financial Forum

Home Browse Search

OFgp Finance Committee Meeting Financial Forum Qe October 17, 2007 O,sJS'INCOPQ�PP� The meeting convened at 7:20 p.m. at the Senior Center, 49 Pleasant Street, Reading, Massachusetts. Present were Chairman Andrew Grimes, Vice Chairman Marsie West, Finance Committee members Tom White, Barry Berman, Hal Torman, and David Greenfield. Also present were Town Manager Peter Hechenbleikner, Assistant Town Manager /Finance Director Bob LeLacheur, Town Accountant Gail LaPointe, Fire Chief Greg Burns, DPW Director Ted McIntire and Jane Kinsella, Superintendent of Schools Pat Schettini, Associate Superintendent John Doherty, HR Director and Business Director Mary DeLai, School Committee members Lisa Gibbs, Elaine Webb, David Michaud and Chuck Robinson, Board of Selectman members Camille Anthony, Ben Tafoya and James Bonazoli and Chronicle reporter Melissa Russell. The meeting began with Warrant Article 11 (a $4.5 million sidewalk and curbing debt exclusion). Peter Hechenbleikner explained that he receives several calls per year for sidewalks and curbs. He reported that the Board of Selectman thought this was a good idea but it needs more discussion, and they did not vote on Article 11. Some examples for the need of sidewalks and curbing are Hunt Park, Washington Park and Sturges Park where there is a need for safety. The cost would be $450,000 per year for 10 years. The cost for the average owner would be approximately $50 per year. Hal Torman asked if there was a prioritized list. Peter explained that a plan is being worked on and will be fine tuned over the winter. They would start with the schools, parks and the high traffic areas. Marsie West mentioned that sidewalks were once done with a betterment. Peter explained that betterments for sidewalks have not been done in 20 years. Peter expressed how pleased he was with the Franklin Street project. Franklin Street residents are very happy with the completed project. Barry Berman asked if the town would consider a betterment. Peter explained that it would have to be a forced betterment and the community does not like to do that. Peter thinks the community would be receptive to this and it will have a huge positive impact. The School Committee called their meeting to order at 7:35 PM. The Board of Selectman called their meeting to order at 7:35 PM. Bob LeLacheur reviewed the budget process FY 08 goals that are listed on the hand out. He reported that they have accomplished most of the goals. He reviewed the FY09 budget calendar, as well as the FINCOM 5% reserves policy and the FINCOM 5% net debt & capital policy. He said the latter was strongly complimented by many members of the community over the past year.