02/23/1999 SELECT BOARD Minutes - Laserfiche WebLink

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i 3 Board of Selectmen Minutes February 23, 1999 FY 2000 BUDGET WORKSHOP: The Selectmen reviewed the analysis of available revenues, and fiscal year 2000 Omnibus Budget requests. It is the consensus of the Board to meet with the following Town Departments to review their budget requests. Board of Selectmen Finance Committee Town Clerk Conservation Commission Zoning Board of Appeals Economic Development Police Department Fire Department Building Department Animal Control School Department DPW Board of Health Council on Aging Leisure Service Department Medical Insurance The Selectmen reviewed the School budget with members of the Finance Committee. Finance Committee member, Sidney Golub indicated that he calculated School budget projections per population and in grades over the past five years. It appears the School Department is overestimating the high school student population by 85 students informed Mr. Golub. Selectman Marsters indicated that he compared the growth of the School Department with demographics. There seems to be a correlation between birth rates and school enrollment figures. Mr. Whritenour recommended a School budget of$12,300,000 without an override. If an override were considered, the difference of$750,000 would bring the School budget to $13,050,000. The School Department has requested a budget of$14,088,892 for fiscal year 2000. Mr. Whritenour indicated that it is critical to understand overrides. For the past five years, the Town has level-funded to allow for the school's increased growth. If the school override is too large, and if it does not pass, it may be necessary to layoff Town employees. Discussion followed with respect to the depleted stabilization account. It as noted that the account is expected to be replenished in October with free cash certification.