Victor Rella

The Board of Finance discussed participation in an upcoming parole hearing and received an update on economic development. Key financial approvals included an appropriation for a 34-foot public safety boat for the fire department, additional appropriations for costs associated with town committee and presidential primary elections, and transfers to help fund anticipated election expenses. Additionally, the Board reviewed and approved an appropriation for printing absentee ballots and postage related to upcoming elections.

The board discussed the Mayor's participation in the U.S. Conference of Mayors and a grievance matter during an executive session. Additionally, the board approved two additional appropriations for health-related grants, specifically for the Health Risk Reduction Grant and the Medical Reserve Corps.

The Board of Finance held a special meeting to review and approve the City of Stamford's FY 2012-2013 operating, special fund, capital, and Board of Education budgets. Key actions included approving budget reductions for the Board of Education and various city departments, such as the Office of Administration, Operations, and Legal Affairs. Specific adjustments were made to car allowances, salary accounts due to anticipated attrition, maintenance accounts, utility expenses, and contract services, including a significant reduction for the volunteer fire departments while still preserving a 10% budget increase.

The meeting included a public participation segment where residents expressed concerns regarding bond resolutions and the need for an audit. Committee chairs provided reports on the Audit, Education, and Financial Policy committees. Financial approvals included a $25,000 appropriation for a joint police gang investigation, a $74,000 appropriation for a robot bomb handler, and a $155,000 supplemental capital appropriation for an economic development project involving outdoor art at the train station.

The board reviewed and acted upon several appropriation requests. Approved items included $115,000 for police department gasoline, $30,000 for police department utility costs, $40,000 for police vehicle maintenance, $30,000 for fire department vehicle maintenance, and $120,000 for the Education through Adventure Grant. An appropriation request of $90,000 for police department shift differentials failed due to lack of a second. Additionally, the board received reports regarding financial policy committees and audit committee reviews, including a reminder regarding adherence to the Purchasing Ordinance.