2008-12-17-AC-min - Laserfiche WebLink

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-Reduced FY09 State Aid – Dr Ash was asked to reexamine the budget for sources to make up for the cut to state aid. One source is a possible $900k of unspent funds that are still on the books from FY07, FY08 and FY09. - FY07 $500k – miscommunication between municipal and school finance departments regarding close out of certain purchase orders -FY08 $348k - encumbered yet unexpended ($248k utilities, $100k SPED) -FY08 $53k - over estimate of purchase orders (hence encumbrance). This $900k would flow to free cash and be available either at a fall 2009 STM or the 2010 ATM. The School Committee passed a motion to recommend drawing money from the Stabilization Fund in place of this $900k and then to replace it later when these funds are available. -Projections based on the closing of the first quarter (Sept 09) books indicate a $291k surplus in the school budget. However this estimate is based on one quarter and the administration does not feel it is prudent to count on the surplus as justification for any changes in spending levels. -enrollments are projected to decrease over the next four years, resulting in the need for 2 less teachers per year. -Avalon Bay enrollments are as projected, at about 120 students -a comparison of part-time employees in Brookline vs. Lexington shows that Brookline has more part-timers then Lexington eligible for benefits as a percentage of the total workforce. Munroe School RFP 7. was discussed at the last Selectmen’s meeting. The refusal of the STM to fund study of Munroe for a senior center was interpreted as a rejection of the site for that purpose. The Selectmen will attempt to draw up an RFP for the building. Some committee members continue to ask what the value of the building is so that the Town can quantify the value of its “contribution” to the arts. Special Town Meeting Review. 8. A general discussion was held in an attempt to understand the factors that lead to the change in the Committee’s vote supporting Article 8. The problem arose because a Town-authorized and funded capital study was not made available to the working group which had been studying the Munroe School. Two main points were apparent. First, it is vital that the work of town committees be adequately supported by town leaders, and that responsibility includes providing these volunteers with all applicable and relevant past studies. Secondly, it is important for there to be open communication and report sharing between all parties reporting on issues that come before town meeting. The meeting was adjourned at 10:20 PM. Respectfully submitted, Eric Michelson Approved July 6, 2009 2