HomeMy WebLinkAbout1988-03-01 Finance Committee Minutes Finance Committee
'r Minutes
March 1, 1988
Called to order: 7:45
Present: Allen, Harrison, McMeniman, Haskell, Burditt, Greene
Absent: Lynch, Catalfemo, Mucci
The Chariman distributed his most recent adjusted budget calculations
for the members' review. The balance of the meeting consisted of the
presentation of the School Department budget.
Mr Shannon began with an overview of the budget. He noted that the
School Committee had met four times on the budget and made three cuts to
date. He said that Dr. Munnelly has been watching the budget
expenditures throughout the year and has found that thru creative
management of the budget, it will be unnecessary for the School
Committee to request financial assistance for the Special Education
expenditures. Additionally he noted that the budget includes there
instatement of some items that had been cut erroneously in past years.
Dr. Munnelly then gave a brief overview stating that overall there was a
decrease of 48 students across the entire system; the budget is
predicated on 278 teacher positions; and that the overall budget
increase (not including salary increases subject to negotiation) is 4.1%
over last fiscal year. He also stated that the asbestos repairs in the
schools will be managed thru the regular budget rather than thru the
.� capital budget. Finally, he listed the new requests as follows:
o 1 speech teacher (therapist at the high school)
0 1 teacher for elementary school gifted and talented
program
0 1 reading teacher at the high school
o increased professional development moves.
The Chairman then opened the discussion to Fin Com members. There was
an open, lenghty and candid discussion with most questims lmnswered
to the satisfaction of the Fin Com members. The questions were varied
and concentrated on specific line items in the budget as well as on the
philosphy of education and tight fiscal policies. School Committee
members agreed that any further cuts to the budget would result in
serious cuts in services provided. -
The issue of the Pearl Street school was raised. Dr. Munnelly stated
that a new lease year is approaching and that the School Committee will
likely look to increase rental costs.
Special Education transportation costs also generated much discussion.
Mr. Shannon stated that they plan to look into alternatives for next
fiscal year.
`✓ Dr. Munnelly reiterated his request for understanding and support from
the Fin Com should the school experience unanticipated expenditures.
With a "bare bones" budget he believed this becomes even more important.
Motion to approve the budget in the amount of $13,672,842 made by member
Greene. Motion to amend to $13,550,000 made by Haskell - defeated
2/3/l.Main motion approved 3/2/1
Adjourned 11:20 p.m.
Va. .
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