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w.._. � ahee IncCso and Diversity Committee <br /> _ _ ...............................ww._._.............w ....................... 16Great Neck Road North <br /> 'Alashpee, -Al- 1 02649 <br /> Amity Day cost $1,500.00. Chairwoman and fellow members spent numerous hours <br /> writing grants and seeking volunteers. There is a lot of uncertainty as being awarded <br /> grant money is not a guarantee. She requested $3,000.00 from MA Cultural Council <br /> and $500.00 was approved as they received many applications. This is a dedicated <br /> Committee with full membership, and it is a lot to ask of a workforce comprised of <br /> solely volunteer members. A set reliable budget will result in continued success as <br /> well as improvement to seek more opportunities for training, not only for members but <br /> citizens of this town. Chairwoman is hopeful a budget of$5000.00 would be <br /> considered annually. <br /> Ms. Landry read the response that was provided by Mr. Collins, Town Manager: <br /> The Committee cannot have an independent budget. If they were to start that <br /> practice, it opens the door for other committees to request funds that have little to no <br /> checks and balances or accepted accounting practices. Gift cards fall into a <br /> questionable prohibited category. Department heads report to the Town Manager. <br /> This provides clarity and accountability to ensure said expenses conform to laws and <br /> standards. Advisory boards are not subject, as such members provide advice. The <br /> fact is, the financial interests of the town must be processed through a Department <br /> Head who is accountable under Mr. Collins. It is still possible for dedicated funds for <br /> purposes permissible by law, such as a request with a specified line item through the <br /> Human Services Director. The request would be reviewed by the Finance Director. In <br /> turn, the request would be part of the bottom line for the Human Services budget. <br /> Such funds would need to be authorized at Town Meeting. There is a purchase order <br /> system and it is subject to approval by the Human Services Director. If the amount <br /> was $1,000.00 or more, it would require the Town Managers approval, consistent <br /> with the Town Bylaw. The deadline for the 2024 fiscal budget is October 1, 2022. Any <br /> requested items should have a cost breakdown for the purpose of such items. <br /> Ms. Stevenson commented she could essentially submit a $5000.00 itemized request to be put <br /> under the Human Services budget. <br /> Mr. Klein asked if they will be doing the same project Who We Are this coming year. The <br /> Committee can allocate $1500.00-$2000.00 for Race Amity Day. There would be an overflow <br /> of$3000.00 going into next year. He asked if that would be the amount asked for every year or <br /> just one time. <br /> 3 <br />