School Committee Budget Meeting 4-5-10
The budget amount of $168,235,667 is not fully funded—approximately $1.8 million in revenue is unaccounted for at the moment. The FY2011 budget was based on several assumptions, including a 10% cut in state funding. It appears that the state cuts might be more modest—only 4%–which would add another $1.1 million back into the budget.
Additionally, the city, working with the school department, has identified some areas that might result in lower costs next year, including electricity, costs for one of the health plans, and worker’s compensation. If the rates and usage all fall favorably, another $600 – $700K would be added back to the budget, completing the $1.8 million shortfall.
With the caveat that there might be a need to reconsider the budget if the above changes do not appear, the School Committee voted unanimously to approve the $25 per semester increase in the 4th grade music fee. Then the School Committee voted unanimously to accept the Superintendent’s proposed FY11 budget as amended on March 25, 2010.