28:34The council’s agenda was headlined by a discussion of financial challenges, notably a deficit in the operating budget. The shortfall of $73,502 was primarily tied to contracted services related to special education transportation, amounting to $8,169, and a larger portion of $223,817 for out-of-district tuitions. To address these fiscal gaps, the council proposed utilizing surplus funds from other budget areas, such as medical staff allocations and educational supplies. This approach aims to balance the budget without compromising essential services for the upcoming school year. A budget freeze remains in place with only essential supplies being purchased, and future discussions are anticipated to determine when and how this freeze might be lifted.

16:40Furthermore, the council reviewed the status of various grants, including federal and entitlement grants, to ensure all funds are appropriately utilized by the fiscal year’s end. Special attention was given to circuit breaker funding, which provided extraordinary relief with a significant payment of $156,310. This aid will be instrumental in managing future budgets, with a forthcoming fourth-quarter payment expected to further bolster financial resources.

01:39In addition to fiscal matters, the council addressed community and educational initiatives. A soft opening for a new playground was discussed, initially marred by safety concerns due to sharp edges on a slide. The playground was temporarily closed for safety inspections, but grass seeding at the site had already commenced. The council expressed commitment to resolving these issues swiftly to ensure the playground’s opening is safe for public use.

29:41Attention also turned to the approval of student participation in regional drone competitions. The 2025 Northeast Aerial Drone Middle School Championship in West Virginia was on the agenda, with five students set to compete from May 28 to May 31. This initiative, requiring minimal school staff presence due to parent chaperones, was approved with an estimated cost of $300. A separate high school drone championship slated for May 30 to June 2 was also approved. The council’s decision to support these activities highlights a commitment to promoting STEM education and extracurricular engagement among students.

In a related educational development, the council touched on the program of studies and the potential for recycling materials to reduce waste.

The meeting also included updates on the town’s revolving accounts, with the athletic account projected to maintain a healthy balance and the tuition account structured to support future budgets. Transportation revenues are expected to rise with the upcoming opening of bus transportation enrollment. The food services account was noted to possess a significant balance, earmarked for upgrades to serving lines and milk coolers at elementary schools. The council acknowledged the impact of losing a federal grant that previously supported local farm purchases, necessitating budget adjustments to maintain local sourcing without that grant assistance.

Before adjourning, the council approved budget transfers to reallocate $35,488 from specific line items to address the aforementioned deficits.