November 17, 2009 at Georgia School Library
Board Present: Matt Crepeau, Doug Bergstrom, Carl Laroe, Irene Bonin
Administrators: Flora Hurteau, Frank Calano, Chris Sumner, Bruce Chattman
Others:
I. Call to Order
The
meeting was called to order at 6:15 PM
II. Public Comment
● Carolyn Branagan was present to discuss that by December 15, 2009 there will be a recommendation for the statewide tax rate for homestead and non-resident tax. This is adjusted according to the CLA (common levels of appraisal) for Georgia. She is figuring at least a $.02 tax increase. This is due mostly in part because of the economy. She feels comfortable adding a $.05 tax increase when preparing the budget.
III. FY11 Budget Proposal
● Chris discussed extra-curricular activities to be added to the budget. The budget stands at a 3.29% increase
● Chris presented administrative changes that would create a 0% increase to the budget. There were a number of items discussed and the percentage of change they would have on the budget.
● It was discovered, based on statute, that if a child attends a high school where a parent resides, it is that town’s responsibility to pay for their education. There are 10 students in question at this point. Frank Calano is making this part of the process now for all 8th graders. This could equate to a large savings for the school. The 10 students in question equal a 1% decrease which would represent at 2.29% increase in the budget.
● There are some unknown numbers at this point, such as high school tuition and state tax rate. High school tuition rates will be known on or before January 15, 2010.
● A 0% increase would be a $400,000 reduction to the budget, which would likely cut into programs.
IV. Further Public Comment
● A member of the public inquired if the Georgia Board has any control over what is contributed to the Supervisory Union. Doug stated that there is an increase at the Supervisory level. Georgia has shifted some expenses over the last couple of years to the Supervisory Union, such as maintenance, business manager position, technology.
● A member of the public inquired about the FWSU budget and how it affects the Georgia budget in all instances such as if the Georgia budget fails.
● The FWSU budget is currently at a 2.9% increase. Community members stated they would like to see a 0% increase at the FWSU level. Doug stated this would be impossible due to the shifting of a position to the FWSU budget.
● Doug stated that these numbers are really not definite until we get all of the information. In January the Board will be in a better position to discuss, if necessary, items/programs need to be cut.
V. Schedule of Upcoming Meetings
A. FWSU Quarterly Board Meeting: November 18th at 7 PM at Fairfax Community Library
B. Next Regular Meeting: December 1st at 6 PM, Georgia School Library
C. Special Budget Meeting: December 15th at 6 PM at Georgia School Library (if needed)
Minutes are unapproved until adopted at the following regular board meeting