At the forefront of the meeting, the committee deliberated on a significant reserve fund transfer request for the school department’s fiscal year 2024 general fund. The discussion revealed the complexities of managing a budget with unpredictable elements such as new Individualized Education Program (IEP) requirements and staff turnover. The committee discussed budget items that varied from initial projections, including transportation, legal, and professional services, and the necessity of position control to manage paraprofessional salaries. The importance of maintaining fiscal responsibility and transparency was emphasized, leading to the approval of a reduced reserve fund transfer of $493,500, with additional adjustments being made through deferred expenses, denied expenses, and the utilization of $300,000 of circuit breaker funding.

The committee also addressed the infrastructure need for Pierce Middle School, which is undergoing construction. The discussion centered on a memorandum of agreement for the use of 50 Fisher Avenue as an interim location during the building process. The committee reviewed updates to the agreement, including a new floor plan and parking information. The importance of maintaining a collaborative relationship with other town departments was highlighted, and the committee chose to move forward with the version of the MOA voted on by the select board, supplemented by a memo of transmittal to convey the committee’s questions and concerns. This pragmatic approach favored advancing the project over holding out for a perfect solution.

Parking accommodations for teachers at the new building were also debated, with some confusion over the number of spaces required. The approved exhibits by the select board were scrutinized for clarity on whether they included a basketball court and an additional vehicle entrance or exit, as well as the cost implications of such additions. Following the discussion, the committee voted to approve the MOA, emphasizing the alignment with a letter that promotes a cooperative relationship between the town and the school committee.