Jeffrey Cooke

The joint-board meeting between the Finance Committee and the Board of Selectmen included a discussion regarding audit weaknesses and deficiencies, noting the transition from the QDS system to MUNIS for future billings, and confirmation that FY25 books were on schedule for closure. Collection rates for real estate, personal property, and excise taxes were reviewed, with no major areas of concern identified for the upcoming year. A significant portion of the discussion addressed the recent increase in real estate tax bills, which was attributed to the combination of an override and higher property assessed values by the assessors. The calculation methodology for the tax levy limit and how quarterly bills are structured was explained. Additionally, the committees noted an upcoming joint-board meeting scheduled for February 5th where the school committee will present information regarding their proposal for MSBA projects, including roof, door replacements, and ADA compliance updates.

The Finance Committee meeting included a review of Year-To-Date (YTD) reports. Key financial concerns discussed were potential over-budget statuses for transportation—SPED and homeless transportation—and an inquiry regarding the high percentage (85%) of the snow and ice expense, with a note that a reserve account is available. Property and Liability Insurance was significantly over budget at 140%, prompting discussion about reviewing historical rate increases with the town manager for better future budgeting. Under DPW, discrepancies were noted in line item budgeting for the general foreman and engineer positions due to a department/title change, and the high overtime expenditure (92%). Enterprise funds showed zero debt service for water and sewer leases, and revenues appeared low, with water and sewer billing cycles not reflecting expected collection percentages. The committee also reviewed three-year operating budget trends, analyzing fixed costs such as health insurance and retirement, which constituted 55% of the non-school department operating budget in FY23, and compared budget growth rates across Town Hall, Public Safety, and DPW departments from FY23 to FY26.

The meeting agenda primarily focused on the fiscal year 2027 (FY27) budget overview, examining both Level-Service and Level-Funded scenarios. Key discussion points included budget expenses such as School Indirect costs, Medicaid reimbursement, transportation costs and efficiencies, and final Health Insurance costs. Revenue projections were also reviewed, comparing actuals from FY24, FY25, and FY26 against FY27 projections. Other town-wide financial items slated for discussion included the Free Cash Status and tax-title properties. A specific proposal regarding the Fire Department Ambulance Service was also on the agenda.

The agenda for the meeting primarily concerns the Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Discussion, which includes guidance on the Level Service Budget and the Level Funded Budget. Discussions will also cover exploring possible reductions in expenses related to School Transportation, Final Health Insurance Costs, and Final School Indirect Costs, as well as exploring possible increases in Revenues based on FY2024/2025 actuals. Another key topic is the Fire Department Ambulance Service Proposal.

The commission received public notice from National Grid regarding the installation of new telephone poles on several roads, which may impact the Historic District. The Commission expressed interest in pursuing the burying of wires on the Old Centre Common. The need to complete individual, web-based ethics training was noted. Discussion also covered the Town Manager actively seeking new employment, which could affect the Commission's budget request and securing new office space. The commission plans to meet with the Town Manager promptly and will discuss setting a new recurring meeting time. A member inquired about the status of renovations at 179 Front Street.