Townsend Finance Committee Grapples with Unused Budget Software and Audit Oversight

Overview: During the Townsend Finance Committee meeting, discussions highlighted the challenges of leveraging new financial software and the need for more rigorous auditing practices. Despite acquiring ClearGov software through a grant in early 2023, the committee acknowledged that the tool remains underutilized, with no training scheduled to optimize its implementation. Additionally, concerns were raised about the lack of effective financial tracking mechanisms and audits, particularly regarding revolving funds and cash transactions within town departments.

Chatham Finance Committee Debates Cemetery Staffing and Water Department Budget Increases

Overview: The Chatham Finance Committee meeting, held both in person and virtually on January 30, 2025, focused on multiple issues including the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget for the Public Works and Water Departments. Extensive discussions were held on increasing staffing for cemetery maintenance, the challenges of recycling, and the financial implications of water department projects.

Manchester-By-The-Sea Finance Committee Faces Rising Healthcare Costs and Budget Challenges

Overview: In a recent meeting, the Manchester-By-The-Sea Finance Committee tackled pressing financial concerns impacting the school district, with healthcare costs and budget constraints for fiscal year 2026 at the forefront. The committee discussed the complexities of managing increasing expenses while maintaining quality educational services amidst declining student enrollment and evolving community needs.

Gardner Faces Potential Budget Strain Due to Surging Health Insurance Costs

Overview: The Gardner Finance Committee meeting centered around pressing financial challenges, most notably the city’s escalating health insurance costs. The committee also addressed the ongoing salary survey follow-up and funding for a middle school roof replacement.

Littleton Finance Committee Deliberates Significant School Budget Increase Amid Financial Constraints

Overview: The recent Littleton Finance Committee meeting focused heavily on the proposed fiscal year 2026 school department budget, highlighting a challenging balance between necessary increases and fiscal constraints. The proposed budget, which seeks an increase of $975,200 from the current $26,418,189, faces scrutiny due to the town’s pressure to maintain a level-funded budget. The school department presented several offsets to manage the salary increase, proposing to reduce it to $425,000, a 1.6% rise over the previous year.