Holliston Discusses School Budget Shortfalls
March 22nd, 2008
Holliston School Committee member and my neighbor, Erica Plunkett, keeps us up to date with the status of the Fiscal Year 2009 Budget Process. Here is her meeting updates that she sent me thru e-mail blast:
As you may recall, the gap between the Finance Committee’s guideline of -1.72% and the School Committee’s voted budget of 4.69% left a gap of $1.7 million and change. As more information has become available, the Fin Com has informed the School Committee that they have reviewed the revenue projections and they are able to provide an additional 460K.
This brings the Fin Com guideline down to 0.00%, which is wonderful news, but still leaves a gap of $1.252 million.
This gap is a difference between what the Finance Committee says we can afford and what the School Committee believes we need. Two boards, two different perspectives
Here is the article in the Metrowest Daily News on Friday: http://www.metrowestdailynews.com/news/x907489551).
To further discuss this gap, there are two important dates of which to be aware:
This Monday, March 24 at 8:00, the School Committee will be meeting with the Board of Selectmen in Town Hall. This is a public meeting and a chance to weigh in on the situation.
In addition, we have called a special School Committee meeting next Thursday, March 27 at 7:00 (most likely in the High School Library) to further discuss what the scenario might be, should we not be able to close the gap.
Overall, the School Committee’s philosophy is markedly similar to Superintendent Jackson’s, with the exception of fees. In a challenging fiscal year, fees are on the table.
I very much hope you will put these dates on your calendars and make it a point to attend these meetings. As of right now, an override is not on the ballot and the Board of Selectmen must make this decision by April 1.
They need to hear from you. I urge you, whatever your decision, to make it an informed one.
Again, if there are any questions, please don’t hesitiate to call School Committee members or the Superintendent’s Office.
Kindest regards,
Erica Plunkett
Categories: Holliston, Town Hall Info
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