A primary focus of the meeting was the new three-year transportation contract, which presented a $145,000 savings against the budget. The committee weighed the closure of the old high school, which has been a topic of debate, particularly regarding the town’s request for the school department to contribute to the building’s expenses. The discussion delved into the cost of maintaining the building and the logistics of potentially using it as a polling place.

The potential for increasing rental rates for the building was also discussed, with some members agreeing that the current rates were notably low and did not reflect the market value. The committee considered the implications of relocating administrative staff from the old high school, debating the logistics and costs, including the shutdown of internet services and the potential health concerns associated with the building.

The impact of the budget deficit on the student experience was a central concern, with members committed to ensuring minimal disruption to students’ education and activities. This included discussions about the potential impact on athletics if the school department were to relocate and the town took over the building. Suggestions were made to draft a document clarifying the school department’s maintenance responsibilities in exchange for continued use of the fields and facilities.

The committee scrutinized the proposed budget, questioning line items that showed increases. The chairperson clarified that some of the increases were due to the transfer of a part-time HR person’s salary from external funds to the school budget and contractual increases following negotiations. Legal expenses were another notable topic, with a member noting the expectation of increased fees due to the necessity for legal services for new students and a recent PRS complaint.

A member raised concerns about the rise in legal fees linked to special education-related expenses, questioning the necessity of hiring lawyers for what was perceived as minor issues.

Regarding the budget, the Startom Young program was discussed as a potential area for savings, with a member proposing individual clubs as an alternative. However, another member supported the program, highlighting its importance in providing organized sports and clubs for students.

The meeting concluded with a decision to direct the business office to resolve the budget deficit and a reminder of upcoming events, such as the Memorial Day Parade and graduation, which remained important focal points for the community.