HomeMy WebLinkAbout1999-09-30 Finance Committee Minuteskt- EIVED
Finance Committee Meeting TOWN CLERK
September 30, 1999 READI',G, SASS.
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The meeting convened at 7:35 p.m. in the Conference Room, at the Towri'T 1, P ' Z9
Lowell Street, Reading Massachusetts. Present were Chairman Carol Grimm, Vice
Chairman Richard McDonald, FinCom Members James Francis, Robert LeLacheur,
Catherine Martin, Charles Robinson and Paul Kurker. Also present were Town Manager
Peter Hechenbleikner, and resident Jackie Mandell.
Liaison Reports
Richard McDonald reported the new Police Station construction is approximately one
month behind schedule. They are having problems getting the materials delivered on
time. There is a shortage due to the high volume of construction going on in this area.
They have used part of the $50,000. building contingency. They anticipate moving in
January 2000.
Carol Grimm reported the Investigation Sub-committee for Rental Space at the High
School is waiting for a report from the auditors.
On a motion by James Francis seconded by Chuck Robinson, the Finance Committee
voted to approve the minutes of August 4, 1999, by a vote of 6-0-1.
On a motion by Catherine Martin seconded by James Francis the Finance Committee
voted to approve the KPMG invoice, from account 01-021-5308, in the amount of
$13,000.
The motion was approved by a vote of 7-0-0.
Town Manager Peter Hechenbleikner reviewed the 14 Articles on the Town Warrant. He
noted that there is no free cash requested on any of the articles on the warrant.
The Finance Committee would like a forecast from the school committee on their
operating budget and capital plan. They want to be informed before they take a vote on
Article 14 - the construction of an additional Elementary School. Carol Grimm asked the
FinCom members to prepare a list of questions they can submit to the School Committee.
Capital Plan
Peter Hechenbleikner reviewed the Capital Plan. The new High School has been moved
up a couple of years. It was reported that the School Committee has voted to request a
proposition 21/Z override for $42 million to build the new high school. The Finance
Committee can suggest an override is needed, but the Selectmen are the only people that
can put it on the ballot.
Corporex could start construction in March 2000. The Town has tightened up some leaks
in the water system and found the additional water needed for Corporex.
( Free cash is at 21/z% of the budget at $1.1 million.
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Meeting Schedule:
October 7, 1999 at the Senior Center
October 21, 1999 at the Supt. Conference Room in the High School
The warrant report needs to go out no later than October 25, 1999.
November 3, 1999 at Town Hall to vote on the articles of the warrant.
On a motion by Dick McDonald seconded by Paul Kurker the Finance Committee voted
to adjourn their meeting of September 30, 1999 at 9:00 by a vote of 7-0-0.
Respectfully submitted,
ry
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