Blandford Select Board Tackles Ambulance Service Funding Challenges

Overview: In a recent Blandford Select Board meeting, one notable issue discussed was the financial sustainability of the local ambulance service. A representative from Hilltown Ambulance presented a detailed breakdown of the service’s operating costs and the challenges faced, including a net loss and difficulties in competing for personnel due to delayed revenue from patient billing. The need to increase the per capita rate was emphasized to address these challenges and to provide competitive wages and benefits to retain staff.

Acton-Boxborough School Committee Advances Educational and Financial Goals

Overview: The Acton-Boxborough Regional School Committee recently convened to discuss a variety of topics, including the district’s financial status, student literacy and mathematics goals, and the implementation of a new school handbook.

Wayne School Board Honors Achievements in Music and Education

Overview: The Wayne School Board meeting on May 16th, 2024, centered around the recognition of various achievements by students and staff in music and education. The Wayne Valley Jazz Ensemble received a gold rating at the West Milford jazz festival, and senior Roberto Ceros was named one of the three best soloists. The Child Development program’s National Popcorn PEP Club contest entry won a $500 prize, and the Wayne Valley competition robotics team achieved third place at the PCCC North Jersey Robotic Competition. The Wayne Hills High School’s Winter Guard and Winter Percussion teams also had successful seasons, with the Guard earning the main BR bronze medal. The meeting spotlighted student artists and athletes, acknowledged donations from PTOs, and discussed agenda revisions, including resignations, retirements, and contract awards.

Brookline School Committee Addresses $4.6 Million Deficit

Overview: The Brookline School Committee’s May 16, 2024 meeting addressed a critical financial deficit of $4.6 million, affecting the Brookline school district’s ability to meet its educational commitments. To mitigate the deficit, the committee approved the transfer of $1.2 million from the salary to the non-salary accounts and discussed the implementation of measures to monitor expenses and identify additional funding sources. The financial challenges raised concerns about the potential impact on student-facing expenses and the administration’s accountability in managing the budget.

Brookline School Committee Tackles Budget Overspending

Overview: In a recent Brookline School Committee meeting, attention was devoted to addressing the challenges of overspending within the FY24 budget, underscored by the need for improved budgeting processes and transparency. The Finance subcommittee grappled with the complexities of underfunded areas, particularly transportation and paraprofessional expenses, which have led to financial discrepancies and concerns over future budgets.