Joint meeting held to review the town manager’s proposed FY’ 2011 budget
By Donald Cronin, News Producer
March 1, 2010

Watch meeting online, indexed by agenda item

Town manager Norman Khumalo fielded another round of questions from members of the board of selectmen, school committee and appropriations committee regarding his proposed FY’2011 town budget. This topic was the only agenda item on Monday evenings board of selectmen meeting. The town manager began his remarks by saying that he wants to present a comprehensive budget to the appropriations committee by March 9, 2010.

Selectmen chairman Brian Herr stated that the goal is to get to a point where the board can vote to recommend the budget to the appropriations committee at their next regular meeting on March 9

One of the first questions asked of the town manager was why is there an increase in the budget presented. He answered that “it is due to increases in fixed costs for both the town and school side”.

A question was raised pertaining to employee health insurance and why was that line item increased by 11%. The town manager indicated there is a difference in the number of town employees wishing to take health benefits and that he is seeking very competitive bids for health insurance in order to save money for residents. 

The town manager also said the youth commissioners requested $56,000 to fund personnel services and he suggested that only a part time position be funded. 

Appropriations committee member Stuart Cowart asked what are the tax impacts on residents based on the proposed budget. He answered by saying increases would mean an additional $179.00 per average household. Appropriations chairman Ron Eldridge requested a letter from selectmen asking why is it OK for Hopkinton residents to pay more money in taxes.

Selectman RJ Dourney stated “I am a huge proponent of our schools” however, “I think the teachers and the union need to face reality”. “No one is getting raises so why not budget with that expectation”. 

School superintendent Jack Phelan responded by saying the budget is a “maintenance of efforts”. It’s hard to call it level services when you reduce 34.7 positions over the last three years.

Selectman Michelle Gates asked what do some of the PTA fundraisers go toward. School committee member Jean Bertschmann responded “the PTA gets $11,500 for professional development and enrichment programs”. 

Selectmen chairman Brian Herr asked the committee what the next step in the budget procedure is.

Appropriations committee chair Ron Eldridge said “we look at funding mechanisms and see if it makes sense financially”. Chairman Herr said he hopes the board can make a recommendation to the appropriations committee next week.